Nordic Birds of Prey Pair — Svenska Fåglar Lithographs, Scandinavian Natural History 1929
A refined pair of original Scandinavian ornithological lithographs from the distinguished series “Svenska Fåglar Efter Naturen Och På Sten Ritade,” published in Sweden in 1929. These prints represent the elegant Nordic tradition of natural history illustration, combining scientific precision with a calm, minimalist aesthetic that translates beautifully into contemporary interior design settings.
Drawn directly from nature and executed using traditional stone lithography, the compositions capture the characteristic posture and anatomical detail of each raptor with remarkable clarity. The spacious backgrounds and balanced tonal palette reflect early twentieth-century Scandinavian design sensibilities, where simplicity and observation of nature were central principles.
Carefully paired for visual harmony, the two prints complement one another through similar scale, posture and palette, creating a cohesive wall presentation suited to both collectors of natural history and interior designers seeking refined organic imagery. Displayed together, the works evoke a museum-quality arrangement while maintaining decorative versatility.
These are authentic original prints from the 1929 publication and are not later reproductions. The works are sold unframed; any framed examples shown are for presentation inspiration only.
Condition:
Original antique prints with light age toning and minor handling marks consistent with early twentieth-century paper. Occasional faint spotting or edge wear; overall clean impressions with strong detail and preserved colour.
Framing tips:
Highly effective in dark walnut or matte black frames with generous ivory mats (approx. 6–8 cm). Hang as a diptych with even spacing to emphasize the Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic.
Technique: Lithograph
Series: Svenska Fåglar Efter Naturen Och På Sten Ritade
Maker: A. Börtzells, Sweden, 1929
More details of the birds:
BG-11219-2-20
Buteo buteo
English:
Common Buzzard
German:
Mäusebussard
Dutch:
Buizerd
French:
Buse variable
Alternative / historical names:
European Buzzard
Variable Buzzard (refers to wide plumage variation)
Notes for collectors: one of Europe’s most recognizable raptors; strong silhouette and balanced posture make it an ideal anchor or companion piece within Scandinavian natural history sets. Its neutral tones integrate well into minimalist interiors.
BG-11219-2-22
Circus pygargus
English:
Montagu’s Harrier
German:
Wiesenweihe
Dutch:
Grauwe kiekendief
French:
Busard cendré
Alternative / historical names:
Pygmy Harrier (rare older usage)
Montagu Harrier
Notes for collectors: a slender and elegant harrier species known for its graceful flight profile and refined proportions. The softer tonal palette and elongated wings give the print a light, airy presence highly appreciated in curated wall arrangements.
Keywords:
antique bird prints, svenska fåglar, nordic raptors, birds of prey art...
Category
1920s Vintage Swedish Wall Decorations