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Bahama Finch Engraving by J.M. Seligmann, Hand-Colored Bird Print, 18th century

About the Item

Bahama Finch Engraving by J.M. Seligmann after George Edwards, Hand-Colored, 18th Century This exquisite 18th-century hand-colored engraving features the Bahama Finch, a vibrant bird scientifically rendered by Johann Michael Seligmann after the work of George Edwards. Seligmann's meticulous craftsmanship and the influence of Edwards, a celebrated English naturalist and ornithologist, come together to create a harmonious blend of scientific precision and artistic beauty. The Bahama Finch, depicted perched among lush botanical elements, stands out with its bright orange breast and striking black-and-white plumage, complementing the elegant curves of the surrounding tree and seed pods. The delicate balance between the bird and the foliage encapsulates the harmonious relationship between avian life and its natural environment. The plate, measuring 248 x 190 mm, is part of Seligmann’s renowned *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), published in Germany to bring the works of naturalists like George Edwards and Mark Catesby to a wider audience. Seligmann expertly translated their studies into visually stunning engravings, adding his own touch with masterful hand-coloring. What makes this engraving truly special is the collaborative effort it represents. George Edwards, often referred to as the "Father of British Ornithology," meticulously observed and painted birds from around the world, documenting their unique characteristics for scientific and artistic communities. Seligmann’s adaptation brought Edwards’ works to a European audience, enhancing the original artistry with vibrant colors and German annotations, making it both a collectible work of art and an invaluable historical document. Keywords: Bahama Finch engraving, J.M. Seligmann, George Edwards, hand-colored print, 18th-century bird illustration, rare exotic birds, ornithological art, botanical elements, antique natural history prints, Johann Michael Seligmann, rare bird engravings for collectors. This piece is ideal for collectors of natural history art, ornithology enthusiasts, and those seeking elegant, hand-colored engravings that capture the beauty of the natural world with timeless precision.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.69 in (37.3 cm)Width: 9.57 in (24.3 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Period:
    1770-1779
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1770
  • Condition:
    Condition: good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Left edge supported by tape. Some minor handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-14005-11stDibs: LU3054342684582

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