German Prints

Mater Dolorosa, 1899 German Chromolithograph of the Sorrowful Mother, Dresden This exquisite late-19th-century chromolithograph of the Mater Dolorosa—“Sorrowful Mother”—was printed ...

1678 Baroque Dressage Training Horse at the Pillar – Georg Simon Winter This original hand-coloured copperplate engraving depicts an advanced riding-school exercise from one of the ...

JOHANN WILHELM WEINMANN (1683-1741) - PHYTANTHOZA ICONOGRAPHIE - Antique set of six framed 18th century first edition PHYTANTHOZA ICONOGRAPHIE botanical hand colored mezzotint engrav...

Ecce Homo, 1899 German Chromolithograph of Christ with Crown of Thorns (Dresden) This moving late-19th-century chromolithograph of Christ as “Ecce Homo” was printed in Dresden in 18...

Anatomy Print: Skeleton, Skull, Organs & Nerves Study – Antique 1867 This detailed antique print presents a comprehensive anatomical study from the 19th century, depicting the human...

Greater Bird of Paradise Male & Female Hand-Colored Lithograph, c. 1875 Description: Original antique hand-colored lithograph depicting a magnificent pair of Greater Birds of Paradise, identified beneath the image as “Der gemeine Paradiesvogel (Paradisea apoda).” The composition shows the spectacular male Greater Bird of Paradise perched above a female. The male is represented with his characteristic golden-yellow ornamental flank plumes cascading dramatically around the body, contrasting with his dark chest and greenish-yellow head and throat. Two extremely elongated tail wires descend beneath him. The more restrained brown plumage of the female provides a striking illustration of the sexual dimorphism for which birds of paradise became celebrated. Birds of paradise were among the most extraordinary exotic birds known to European naturalists and collectors. Early specimens reached Europe from the Indonesian archipelago without their feet, contributing to centuries of myths that the birds lived perpetually in the air. This history is reflected in the scientific name Paradisea apoda, meaning essentially “footless bird of paradise.” The plate is numbered Fig. 139 and bears the German title “Der gemeine Paradiesvogel.” It was produced for a German 19th-century natural-history publication and is a fine example of the period's increasingly sophisticated ornithological illustration. Although the composition is reminiscent of the celebrated bird illustrations associated with John Gould, I would not attribute this particular plate directly to Gould. The available evidence does not establish Gould as its artist or publisher, and the German typography and figure numbering indicate that it belongs to a separate German natural-history publication. Greater Bird of Paradise Paradisea apoda “Der gemeine Paradiesvogel” Fig. 139 German School c. 1870–1880 Original hand-colored lithograph This is an original antique print from the 19th century, not a modern reproduction. Condition: Good antique condition with overall age-related toning, scattered light foxing and minor spotting and marks, particularly within the margins. Some minor handling wear is consistent with age. The colors remain attractive and the principal image is well preserved. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description. Period: Late 19th Century Style: Victorian Medium: Hand-colored lithograph on paper Subject: Greater Bird of Paradise Bird of Paradise Paradisea apoda Male and Female Birds Tropical Birds Ornithology Natural History Keywords: Greater Bird of Paradise, Bird of Paradise, Paradisea apoda, Paradiesvogel, Der gemeine Paradiesvogel, paradise bird, tropical bird, exotic bird, male bird of paradise, female bird of paradise, Indonesian birds...

Antique Tea Botanical Print, Thea Chinensis, Hand Colored, c.1831 This elegant botanical engraving depicts Thea chinensis, the tea plant, one of the most influential commodities in ...

Antique print of various snakes including the buff striped keelback snake. This print originates from 'Bilderbuch fur Kinder' by F.J. Bertuch. Friedrich Joha...

Christ Knocking at the Door, c.1900 German Devotional Chromolithograph (Printed in Germany) This beautiful early 20th-century German chromolithograph depicts one of the most tender ...

The Angelus at Sunset, After Millet, Antique European Chromolithograph This atmospheric late 19th-century European chromolithograph presents a devotional rural scene inspired by Jea...

St Mary Protectress of Innocents, Antique German Chromolithograph c.1900 This exceptionally tender and beautifully composed late 19th–early 20th century German chromolithograph depi...

Eight Small Original Antique Pedicularis Wildflower Prints from the Alps, 1897 Description: A beautifully matched set of eight original antique botanical chromolithographs published...

Antique Botanical Prints Set, German Wildflowers Atlas Plates, Stuttgart 1890 This refined collection of botanical plates originates from Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs by M. Fünfstück, published in Stuttgart circa 1885. Created during the late nineteenth century’s flourishing period of scientific illustration, these works combine botanical accuracy with a restrained decorative elegance that translates beautifully into contemporary interior design. The plates present a diverse survey of European wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and native field plants rendered with delicate color and precise draftsmanship. Species illustrated include nettle (*Urtica dioica*), hops (*Humulus lupulus*), plantain (*Plantago*), sorrel (*Rumex*), chickweed (*Stellaria*), buttercups (*Ranunculus*), pinks and campions (*Dianthus* and *Silene*), meadow herbs, flowering field plants, and various alpine and woodland flora. The compositions balance botanical specimens with airy spacing, allowing each plant form to stand clearly while contributing to an overall harmonious visual rhythm. The soft palette of sage greens, muted blush pinks, and warm paper tones creates a calm and organic aesthetic well suited to modern interiors. Unlike highly saturated botanical imagery, these plates function as sophisticated architectural wall elements — ideal for organic modern spaces, Scandinavian interiors, country houses, wellness environments, or hospitality settings seeking authenticity and quiet natural texture. Displayed together, the prints form a cohesive botanical narrative that introduces movement, refinement, and historical depth without visual heaviness. Produced as educational plates yet executed with notable artistic sensitivity, these works exemplify the German tradition of merging science and design. Their balanced compositions and timeless subject matter make them particularly attractive for designers creating layered, nature-inspired interiors. The prints are offered unframed, allowing collectors and designers full freedom to select framing appropriate to their interior schemes. Any framed examples shown are intended solely for visual inspiration. Condition report: Very good antique condition with general age-related toning consistent with late nineteenth-century paper. Light surface wear and occasional minor spotting visible upon close inspection. Original centerfolds as issued. Paper remains strong and stable, presenting attractively overall. Framing tips: These botanical plates benefit from generous ivory or soft cream matting to emphasize their delicate compositions and preserve visual balance. Natural oak, walnut, or subtle antique gilt frames enhance the historical character while remaining compatible with modern interiors. Hanging as a structured grid or salon-style botanical wall creates a refined, designer-led installation with strong visual cohesion. Keyword block: antique botanical prints, German botanical atlas, M Fünfstück, Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs, wildflower botanical prints, antique plant illustrations, European wildflowers art, botanical wall decor, vintage botanical plates...

Wading Birds & Cranes Print: Flamingo, Stork, Ibis, Bustard – Antique 1867 This elegant antique print depicts a variety of wading birds and cranes, including flamingos, storks, ibis...

Allegory of Emperor Charles VI and the Habsburg Monarchy, c.1720 A large and visually impressive Baroque allegorical engraving celebrating the reign of Emperor Charles VI (1685–1740...

Hangman's Bridge (Henkersteg), Nuremberg, Bavaria, Germany - Antique fine art hand colored engraving on heavy cream paper - architectural view - indistinctly signed by the artist low...

This is a view of the Vatican in Rome, an original antique steel engraving, uncolored, circa 1850. The caption reads DER VATICAN IN ROM, German for the Vatican in Rome. The dome of ...

Antique print titled 'Der Moderne Kleidermacher XII'. German fashion print, published circa 1900. Four men showing various outfits (incl. long jackets/coats), all wearing hats.

European Bird Eggs Lithographs, Set of Two – Meyers Konversations-Lexikon, 1890s Description: This exquisite pair of chromolithographs, titled Eier europäischer Vögel I & II (Eg...

Original Antique Print of Swallowtail and Painted Lady Butterflies by Bertuch, c. 1800 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting three colorful butterflies together w...

Rivinus botanicals: Anonis, Hedysarum & Genista hispanica, Leipzig, 1690s Set of three late-17th/early-18th-century botanical copper engravings with period hand-colour, attributed t...

Antique Fruit Chromolithographs, Apples & Plums, Set of Six, Calwer 1854 This refined set of six original mid-19th century botanical fruit chromolithographs was published in Stuttga...

Antique Botanical Prints Set, German Wildflower Atlas Plates, Stuttgart 1885 This elegant group of botanical plates originates from Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs by M. Fünfstück, published in Stuttgart circa 1890. Produced during the late nineteenth century’s peak period of scientific illustration, these works beautifully combine botanical accuracy with refined decorative composition, making them highly suitable for both collectors and interior-driven presentation. The plates illustrate a wide variety of European wildflowers, medicinal plants, and garden species rendered in delicate hand-colored tones and precise naturalistic detail. Species represented include carnations and pinks (*Dianthus*), forget-me-nots (*Myosotis*), buttercups (*Ranunculus*), columbine (*Aquilegia*), monkshood (*Aconitum*), water lily (*Nymphaea*), poppy (*Papaver*), cabbage (*Brassica*), meadow herbs, flowering perennials, and numerous field and woodland plants. The compositions balance individual botanical studies with airy spacing and harmonious arrangement, allowing each specimen to read clearly while forming a cohesive visual ensemble. The restrained palette — soft sage greens, pale blues, muted yellows, and gentle rose tones — creates a calm and sophisticated aesthetic well suited to contemporary interiors. Rather than functioning merely as scientific diagrams, these plates operate as architectural decorative elements, ideal for organic modern interiors, Scandinavian spaces, country houses, wellness environments, or boutique hospitality settings. Displayed together, the prints introduce rhythm, natural structure, and historical authenticity while maintaining visual lightness. Originally produced as educational material yet executed with notable artistic sensitivity, the plates exemplify the German tradition of merging science, craftsmanship, and design. Their timeless botanical subjects and balanced compositions make them especially appealing for designers seeking authentic nineteenth-century works that integrate seamlessly into modern environments. The prints are offered unframed, allowing collectors and designers full freedom to tailor framing choices to individual interiors. Any framed examples shown serve purely as visual inspiration. Condition report: Very good antique condition with general age-related toning consistent with late nineteenth-century paper. Light surface wear and occasional minor spotting visible upon close inspection. Original centerfolds as issued. Paper remains structurally sound and displays attractively overall. Framing tips: These botanical plates benefit from generous ivory or warm off-white matting to enhance the delicate compositions and preserve visual breathing space around each specimen. Frames in dark walnut, natural oak, or subtle antique gilt create an elegant balance between historical character and contemporary refinement. Hanging as a grid or salon-style botanical arrangement produces a cohesive, designer-led wall installation with strong visual presence. Keyword block: antique botanical prints, German botanical atlas, M Fünfstück, Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs, wildflower botanical prints, antique plant illustrations, European flora prints, botanical wall art set, vintage botanical plates...

Weinmann Phytanthoza Iconographia Grape Engravings, Set of Four, Circa 1745 This set of four color-printed and hand-finished botanical engravings of grape vines comes from Johann Wi...

Andy Warhol's Endangered Species Portfolio of 6 Prints by Neues Publishing Company, 1989 The 1989 portfolio contains high-quality reproductions of six animals rendered in Warhol's s...

The Angelus at Sunset, After Millet, Antique European Chromolithograph This atmospheric late 19th-century European chromolithograph presents a devotional rural scene inspired by Jea...

Set of Three Antique Mineralogy Chromolithographs, Quartz, Agate & Tourmaline, 1888 DESCRIPTION: A decorative set of three original 19th-century mineralogy plates illustrating quart...

Jesus Blessing the Children, Antique German Chromolithograph after Meithheuser c.1900 This exceptionally moving late 19th–early 20th century German chromolithograph depicts one of t...

Pair of Curtis’s Botanical Magazine Hand-Coloured Engravings, Portuguese Flag and Branching Moraea, Sydenham Edwards 1803 and 1804 This pair of hand-coloured copperplate engraving...

Adoration of the Magi, c.1900 German Chromolithograph (Printed in Germany) This beautiful early 20th-century German chromolithograph depicts the Adoration of the Magi, one of the most cherished subjects in Christian art. Printed around 1900–1920 by a major German devotional press, the work displays the hallmarks of high-quality chromolithographic craftsmanship: deep, luminous color; soft tonal transitions; richly layered stone-based pigments; and a gentle atmosphere that recalls late 19th-century academic religious painting. The composition presents the Virgin Mary seated with the Christ Child, Joseph beside her, and the Three Kings kneeling in reverence as they present their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. A young attendant appears in the doorway holding another offering. The figures are rendered with delicately modeled expressions, soft haloes, and meticulously detailed robes—particularly the embroidered white garment of the kneeling king and the golden cloak of the standing monarch. These chromatic effects were achieved through multiple lithographic stones, a technique that reached its peak among German devotional publishers during this period. The multilingual caption along the lower margin identifies the print for international Catholic distribution: “Anbetung der Könige. Adoration of the Three Kings. L’adoration des rois mages. L’adorazione dei Magi. La adoración de los Reyes Magos. Pokłon Trzech Króli.” This reflects the broad export networks of German publishers who supplied churches, monasteries, and private devotional homes throughout Europe and the Americas. The note “Printed in Germany” confirms its origin, consistent with presses in Munich, Dresden, Cologne, and Limburg, known for producing richly colored religious chromolithographs from the late 19th to early 20th century. This work is unquestionably an original chromolithograph, not a modern reproduction. The image shows true stone-layered color rather than digital or offset dots, and the paper retains the matte texture, subtle toning, and characteristic stippled pigment structure associated with genuine early 20th-century chromolithography. The presence of the multilingual caption, period typography, and the “Printed in Germany” imprint further authenticate the piece. Condition Report: Very good condition. Colors vivid and unfaded. Minor age toning to outer margins and small handling marks consistent with age. No tears, losses, or repairs observed. The bottom title and imprint text are sharp and fully legible. Tips for Framing: Ideal for framing in a gilded or walnut frame to complement the warm palette and ceremonial richness of the scene. A cream or ivory mat enhances the devotional character and highlights the luminous tones of the garments. A darker frame with a wide mat can also create a refined, museum-style presentation. Technique: Chromolithograph Maker: German Devotional Press, printed in Germany, c.1900 Keyword Block: adoration of the magi three kings epiphany art christ child holy family mary and jesus st joseph devotional art catholic art religious art chromolithograph german chromolithograph printed in germany antique lithograph german devotional print early 20th century religious print nativity scene christian iconography epiphany print anbetung der könige fine chromolitho religious ephemera magi kings christmas art holy family scene antique christian art...

Original Antique Print of Exotic Insects, Lanternfly and Mantis, c. 1790 Original antique hand-colored engraving depicting a spectacular collection of exotic insects, including a la...

Bending Male Nude Study after de Lairesse German Drawing Manual c1745 Description: This compelling academic study of the male nude originates from the German edition of Gérard de La...

Title: Detailed Study of Butterfly Wing Structures, 1798 Hand-Colored Engraving Description: This 1798 hand-colored copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's "Bilderbuch...

Antique Palm Tree Botanical Print, Exotic Tropical Plate, German Atlas 1885 An impressive original double-page botanical plate (Tafel 21) from M. Fünf...

Antique New Mexico Landscape Print, Wagon Train Scene, Meyer 1850s This atmospheric mid-19th-century engraving presents a striking frontier landscape titled “Landschaft bei der Furt...

Baroque Garden and Palace near Vienna – Antique Architectural Engraving, 1649 This is a beautifully detailed 17th-century engraving, depicting a formal Baroque garden layout in Vien...

Satirical German Military Engraving of Napoleon as the Little Corporal, c1835 This 19th-century German engraving presents a humorous encounter between a marching soldier and Napoleon Bonaparte, referred to here by his well-known nickname “the Little Corporal.” The guard refuses to let Napoleon pass, replying firmly: “Man passirt nicht — Und wär’ Ihr der kleine Corporal selbst; ich sage Euch man passirt nicht” (“One does not pass — and even if you were the Little Corporal himself, I tell you one does not pass”). The composition gently satirizes Napoleon’s legendary status, contrasting the anonymous authority of a common soldier with the figure who once ruled Europe. Produced around 1830–1850, likely in a German or Austrian print workshop, the engraving reflects the wave of post-Napoleonic satire that circulated widely in Central Europe. The artist captures the exchange with strong facial expressions, detailed uniforms and a richly rendered woodland setting. Prints of this type remain popular among collectors of Napoleonic history, military art and European caricature, while the crisp impression and large sheet size make it appealing as decorative wall art as well. A charming and historically engaging image from the early 19th century, combining humour, military history and well-executed engraving work. Condition: Strong impression; light age toning; minor handling marks; margins clean with no major tears or repairs. Suitable for immediate framing. Framing: Looks best floated on off-white or pale cream museum board in a thin black, dark walnut or antiqued gold frame. Museum glass recommended to preserve contrast and period detail. Keywords: Napoleon engraving...

Mid century abstract lithograph by Gerard Schneider, German, circa 1960s. Signed. It measures 28.5"H x 37.5"W.

Title: Pair of Antique Hawk Moth Life Cycle Engravings – Bertuch, c.1800 A striking set of two original antique hand-colored copper engravings depicting large hawk moths or sphinx m...

Original Antique Print of Three Exotic Tropical Fish by Bertuch, c. 1800 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting three spectacular exotic fish, published in Friedri...

Original Antique Print of Volcanic Eruptions and Ships by Bertuch, c. 1800 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting two dramatic volcanic phenomena, published in Fri...

Jonstonus Friesian and Hungarian Horses Engraving, 1650 Description: Original antique copper engraving depicting two European horse breeds: the Friesian horse (“Equus Frisicus – Frisisch Pferd”) and the Pannonian or Hungarian horse (“Equus Pannonicus sive Hungaric – Hungarisches Pferd”). The upper composition shows the powerful Friesian horse standing in profile, distinguished by its heavy build, long flowing mane and feathered legs. Below, the Hungarian horse is represented in a dramatic rearing pose, creating a particularly lively and decorative equestrian composition. The engraving was published in Joannes Jonstonus’ important Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus, Frankfurt am Main, 1650. The work was issued by the heirs of Matthäus Merian and forms part of Jonstonus’ celebrated multi-volume natural history of animals. Joannes Jonstonus (1603–1675), also known as John Johnston or Jan Jonston, was a Polish-born physician, naturalist and scholar. His extensive natural-history publications were among the important illustrated zoological works of the 17th century, preceding the systematic classification of Linnaeus by more than a century. From the first edition of Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus, published in Frankfurt by the Merian publishing house in 1650. Plate II, titled within the engraving: “Equus Frisicus – Frisisch Pferd” “Equus Pannonicus sive Hungaric – Hungarisches Pferd” A beautiful early representation of the Friesian horse and an appealing decorative work for an equestrian, country-house or natural-history collection. Joannes Jonstonus (1603–1675) Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus Frankfurt am Main Published by the heirs of Matthäus Merian 1650 Original copper engraving Plate II This is an original antique print published in 1650, not a modern reproduction. Condition: Good antique condition with overall age-related toning, scattered spotting and surface marks. Noticeable old staining and discoloration to the lower left corner and margin. Minor handling creases and wear along the sheet edges. The engraved image remains strong and well defined. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description. Period Mid-17th Century Style Baroque Natural History Equestrian Subject Friesian Horse Hungarian Horse Equestrian Horses Natural History Zoology Frisian Keywords: Joannes Jonstonus, John Johnston, Jan Jonston, Matthäus Merian, Merian, Friesian horse, Frisian horse, Friesisch Pferd, Equus Frisicus, Hungarian horse, Pannonian horse, Equus Pannonicus, horse engraving, antique horse print, equestrian engraving, equestrian art, horse wall art...

Immaculate Conception, c.1900 German Devotional Chromolithograph This beautiful early 20th-century German chromolithograph depicts the Immaculate Conception, one of the most belove...

Antique Date Palm & Coconut Botanical Scene, Phoenix & Cocos, c.1831 Description: This richly illustrated botanical scene depicts the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and coconut pal...

Collection of nine 18th Century tropical botanical engravings by Georg Dionysius Ehret. Hand coloured prints depicting local flora of Barbados. Each is dedicated to a prominent perso...

Renaissance Wind Cosmology Woodcut with Globe & Elemental Winds, 1590 This striking late 16th-century German woodcut page originates from an early ency...

JOHANN WILHELM WEINMANN (1683-1741) - PHYTANTHOZA ICONOGRAPHIE - Antique pair of framed 18th century first edition Phytanthoza Iconographie botanical hand colored mezzotint engraving...

Original Antique Print of an Atlas Moth by Bertuch, circa 1800 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting the magnificent Atlas moth (Attacus atlas), one of the largest and most spectacular moths in the world. The plate is titled “Insecten XXVIII / Insectes XXVIII” and originates from Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s celebrated “Bilderbuch für Kinder,” published in Weimar around 1800. The enormous moth is shown with its wings fully extended across a flowering branch. Its richly patterned wings are beautifully rendered in shades of rust, ochre, cream, black and pink, with the characteristic translucent, window-like markings prominently displayed. The combination of the dramatically oversized insect and delicate botanical background makes this one of the more visually striking natural-history subjects in Bertuch’s series. The Atlas moth is native to the tropical forests of South and Southeast Asia and is renowned for its extraordinary wingspan. Its distinctive wing tips have often been noted for their resemblance to the head of a snake, possibly serving as a defensive adaptation against predators. The engraving bears the inscription “Jacob H. Schmuzer” at lower right. Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) was a German publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “Bilderbuch für Kinder” (Picture Book for Children) was one of the great illustrated educational encyclopedias of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Published in Weimar from 1790 onward, the work contained hundreds of finely engraved and hand-colored plates devoted to natural history, geography, science, technology, costumes and mythology. A particularly decorative and impressive antique natural-history print, well suited to collectors of butterflies and moths, entomology and early scientific illustration. Creator: Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) Engraver: Jacob H. Schmuzer Source: Bilderbuch für Kinder Plate: Insecten XXVIII / Insectes XXVIII Place of Publication: Weimar, Germany Date of Manufacture: Circa 1800 Period: Early 19th Century Style: Neoclassical – In the Period of Medium: Original hand-colored copper engraving on paper Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Light age-related toning and occasional minor spotting. Some marginal wear and small imperfections, particularly along the right edge. Original hand coloring remains strong and attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition. Please note: This is an original antique print from circa 1800, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only. Keywords: Atlas moth print, Attacus atlas, antique moth...

TITLE Gerhard Coch, Peace of Westphalia & Hanseatic Diplomat Portrait, 1652 DESCRIPTION Original mid-17th-century portrait engraving of Gerhard Coch (1601–1660), German jurist, Br...

Antique Comet Study “Kometen”, Meyers Scientific Cosmos Leipzig c.1900 A captivating and atmospheric antique chromolithograph titled “Kometen” (Comets), published in Meyers Konversa...

Title: Pair of Antique Dragonfly, Cicada & Exotic Insect Engravings – Bertuch, c. 1815 A decorative set of two original antique hand-colored copper engravings depicting an extraordi...

Antique Greek Jugs with Classical & Winged Figures Lithograph, 1883 Original antique color lithograph depicting a remarkable collection of ancient Greek jugs and pouring vessels dec...

This is a view of the interior of Saint Peter's in Rome, an original antique steel engraving, uncolored, circa 1850. The caption reads DAS INNERE DER PETER'S KIRCHE ZU ROM., German f...

Original Antique Print of Tarantula, Spiders and Scorpions by Bertuch, c. 1790 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting a remarkable group of spiders and scorpions, ...

Original Antique Print of Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre Masks by Bertuch, 1802 Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting ten theatrical masks from classical antiqui...

Stonehenge in Wiltshire, an original antique steel engraving with light hand coloring, circa 1850. The caption below the image reads STONEHENGE. The great stones stand across the ce...

Original Antique Print of Exotic Moths and Butterflies by Bertuch, c.1820 Original antique hand-colored engraving depicting four spectacular moths and butterflies, published in Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s celebrated “Bilderbuch für Kinder” during the early 19th century. The plate is titled “Insecten LXXXI / Insecta LXXXI / Insectes LXXXI” and bears the reference “XV.B.45” at lower right. Dominating the composition is Fig. 1, an extraordinary large pale yellow-green silk moth with exceptionally long, elegant tails extending from the hindwings. Delicate linear markings, circular eyespots and subtle red accents give the insect an almost ethereal appearance. Fig. 2 depicts another impressive large moth with broad brown forewings and richly patterned hindwings in black, pink and cream. Its strongly striped abdomen and unusual green markings add to the exotic character of the specimen. Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate two smaller but vividly colored butterflies. Fig. 3 combines brilliant red-orange wings with dramatic black markings, while Fig. 4 is predominantly black with a striking border of blue, orange and cream eyespots. The considerable difference in scale between the enormous long-tailed moth and the smaller butterflies creates a particularly effective composition. The restrained pale coloring of the upper specimen contrasts beautifully with the intense red, blue, black and pink of the insects below. The engraving is enhanced with original hand coloring and is a fine example of the fascination with exotic Lepidoptera in European natural-history publications of the early 19th century. Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) was a German publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “Bilderbuch für Kinder” (Picture Book for Children) was one of the most ambitious illustrated educational encyclopedias of its period. Published in Weimar from 1790 onward, it contained hundreds of engraved and hand-colored plates devoted to zoology, botany, geography, science, technology, antiquity and numerous other subjects. Creator: Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) Source: Bilderbuch für Kinder Plate: Insecten LXXXI / Insecta LXXXI / Insectes LXXXI Reference: XV.B.45 Subject: Exotic Moths and Butterflies Place of Publication: Weimar, Germany Date of Manufacture: Circa 1820 Period: Early 19th Century Style: Neoclassical – In the Period of Medium: Original hand-colored engraving on paper Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use. General age-related toning with scattered foxing, spotting and minor marks. Some discoloration and handling wear are visible. Minor marginal wear and edge irregularities, particularly along the right edge. Original hand coloring remains strong and attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition. Please note: This is an original antique engraving from the early 19th century, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only. Other companion butterfly, moth and natural-history plates from Bertuch’s “Bilderbuch für Kinder” are also available separately. Keywords: antique moth...

Original Antique Print of Archaeological Excavations by Bertuch, c. 1800 Original antique copper engraving depicting archaeological excavations and newly uncovered ancient architect...

Title: Constantinopolis Expugnatio a Turchis - Hartmann Schedel, 1493 This woodcut view of Constantinople is from Hartmann Schedel's 'Nuremberg Chronicle' (Liber Chronicarum), publi...

A rare and visually compelling suite of three Renaissance-period engravings, likely originating from a Central European historical or dynastic publication produced in the late 16th o...