1880s Prints

Title: Hand-Colored Victorian Woodcut of Melbourne’s Samuel Mullens Library, 1889 Description: This hand-colored woodcut engraving, published in the *Illustrated London News* on January 19, 1889, offers a captivating glimpse into the cultural and social life of late 19th-century Melbourne. The scene illustrates the bustling interior of Samuel Mullens' Circulating Library, located on Collins Street East, a prominent hub for literature and intellectual engagement in the Victorian era. The illustration, crafted with the meticulous detail typical of wood engravings, was later hand-colored to bring the lively scene to life. It showcases a diverse group of patrons—fashionably dressed women, children, and men—exploring the library’s offerings. The women are adorned in elegant Victorian attire, complete with elaborate hats, fitted bodices, and flowing skirts, while young girls hold their cases, perhaps for borrowing books or carrying personal items. What makes this print especially significant is its representation of a key institution in Melbourne’s cultural landscape. Circulating libraries like Samuel Mullens’ were essential to the dissemination of knowledge, providing access to books and periodicals for both leisure and education. The inclusion of promotional signage, such as the advertisement for "Mordan...

Saint Anthony's Gate in Amsterdam, 1882 heliogravure by Maxime Lalanne This original 1882 heliogravure, based on a charcoal drawing (fusain) by renowned French artist Maxime Lalann...

The Proud Game Fowl A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph , 1888 This striking 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of game fowl, a breed known for its sleek, muscular build, long legs, and vibrant plumage. The print, titled Strijdhoenders, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided a detailed guide to poultry breeding, selection, and care, reflecting the significant role of game birds in both history and poultry exhibitions. Game fowl are among the oldest chicken breeds, with origins tracing back thousands of years to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Known for their exceptional agility and strong survival instincts, these birds were bred for their resilience and striking appearance. The rooster in this lithograph showcases the classic attributes of a game bird, with its slender frame, arched tail, and sharp, alert gaze. Its plumage features deep iridescent greens, fiery reds, and golden hues, creating a visually stunning contrast. The hen, though smaller, exhibits the same streamlined build with a warm brown and black feather pattern. This lithograph was produced using chromolithography, a meticulous 19th century printing technique that allowed for vibrant and finely detailed illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a renowned animal illustrator of the period. Chromolithographs were created by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final print. The careful rendering of the game fowl’s smooth feather texture and bold coloring highlights the craftsmanship involved in this technique. Condition Summary The print remains in very good condition, with well preserved colors and sharp details. Some minor age related toning and light foxing spots are visible, particularly along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper remains stable, with minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent piece for collectors of antique poultry...

The Regal Partridge Italian Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This remarkable 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Partridge Italian chickens, a breed admired for its striking plumage, graceful build, and lively temperament. The print, titled Patrijsveer-Italianen, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided an extensive guide to poultry breeding, detailing both functional and ornamental breeds highly regarded in the 19th century. Partridge Italian chickens are a visually striking variety, displaying a rich combination of deep golden-brown, black, and chestnut hues. The rooster in this lithograph stands with an imposing posture, exhibiting its glossy black tail feathers and vibrant golden saddle feathers. The hens are equally beautiful, featuring finely patterned feathering on their backs and wings, transitioning into a warm golden-brown on their chests. This variety is not only known for its beauty but also for its excellent egg-laying abilities and hardy nature, making it a favorite among poultry breeders. This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a highly skilled 19th-century printing process that allowed for vibrant, multi-colored illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a well-known animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithography involved layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, to achieve depth, shading, and fine detail. The precision in rendering the intricate feather textures and the interplay of light and shadow in this lithograph highlights the mastery of this technique. Condition Summary The print remains in very good condition, with its colors still rich and vibrant. Some minor age-related toning and light foxing are visible along the edges, a common characteristic of lithographs from this period. The paper is stable with minimal signs of wear, making it a valuable collectible for antique poultry print...

Title: Ornamental Vase with Intricate Designs – Plate XIII from Section VII Description: Plate XIII from Section VII showcases a beautifully illustrated ornamental vase adorned with...

The Lively Golden Bantam Game Fowl A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This charming 19th century chromolithograph showcases a group of Golden Bantam Game Fowl, a small but spi...

Scenes of Victorian Melbourne: Government House and Land Sale, 1889 This hand-colored wood engraving, published in *The Illustrated London News* on January 5, 1889, captures two v...

Sensational image by Gustave Doré Woodcut engraving Published C.1880 Unframed. Free shipping

The Sleek Black Hamburg Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This elegant 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Black Hamburg chickens, a refined breed known...

The Striking Cuckoo Italian Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This exquisite 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Cuckoo Italian chickens, a breed distinguished by its beautiful barred plumage, elegant body shape, and alert expression. The print, titled Koekoeksvêer Italianen, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided a comprehensive guide to poultry breeding, showcasing both practical and ornamental breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century. Cuckoo feathering, also known as barring, is a striking pattern where alternating bands of dark and light feathers create a rippling effect across the body. This coloration was favored in many European breeds for its camouflage benefits and visual appeal. The rooster in this lithograph stands with a commanding presence, displaying bold barring throughout its body and tail, while the hen exhibits a more subtle but equally refined version of this striking pattern. Both birds have bright red combs and wattles, providing a dramatic contrast to their cool-toned feathers. This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a sophisticated 19th century printing process that allowed for richly detailed and vibrantly colored illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a skilled animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithographs were produced by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final print. The detailed rendering of the barring pattern and subtle shading in this lithograph highlights the craftsmanship involved in this technique. Condition Summary The print remains in very good condition, with well preserved colors and sharp details. Some minor age related toning and light foxing spots are visible, particularly along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper remains stable, with minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print...

Sensational image by Gustave Doré Woodcut engraving Published C.1880 Unframed. Free shipping

Six impressive full page colored chromolithographic plates of monumental art in Italy. Published in 1883. These are large-folio seized in a clamshell portfolio and include the 16 lea...

The Elegant Black Bantams A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th-century chromolithograph, titled Zwarte Bantams, showcases a group of black bantam chickens in ...

The Distinctive La Flèche Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This remarkable 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of La Flèche chickens, an elegant and rare French breed known for its striking V-shaped comb, sleek black plumage, and excellent meat quality. The print, titled La Flèche’s, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided an in-depth guide to poultry breeding, care, and selection, reflecting the growing demand for high quality meat and egg producing breeds during the 19th century. La Flèche chickens are one of the most unique European breeds, originating in the Loire Valley of France. They are best known for their distinctive horn-shaped comb, which gives them a regal and almost devilish appearance. These birds were historically favored by French markets for their fine-textured meat, which was considered among the best of any poultry breed. The breed is also an excellent forager, thriving in free range environments, and is capable of producing a good number of large white eggs...

The Enchanting Japanese Silkie Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This exquisite 19th-century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Japanese Silkie chickens, a breed kn...

The Charming Krielhoenders A 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This delightful 19th-century chromolithograph, titled Krielhoenders, depicts a lively group of bantam chickens, or kri...

Japanese Bantams with Black Tails A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This exquisite 19th-century chromolithograph, titled Japansche Krielhoenders met Zwarten Staart, depicts a...

The Magnificent Partridge Cochinchina A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This stunning 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Partridge Cochinchina chickens, an imp...

The Regal Light Brahma A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This beautiful 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Light Brahma chickens, a distinguished breed known fo...

The Elegant Minorca A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This exquisite 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Minorca chickens, a Mediterranean breed known for its striking black plumage, large comb, and excellent egg laying capabilities. The print, titled Minorka’s, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided a detailed account of poultry breeding and care, reflecting the growing interest in high quality egg producing breeds during the 19th century. Minorcas, named after the Spanish island of Menorca, are among the most productive of the Mediterranean breeds, known for their ability to lay large white eggs. They were introduced to England in the late 18th century and became highly popular across Europe due to their hardiness and prolific egg production. The breed is characterized by its sleek black feathers, bright red comb and wattles, and distinctive white earlobes, which contrast beautifully against its dark plumage. The Minorca rooster stands tall with an upright posture, while the hen maintains a graceful and refined stance. This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a 19th century printing process that allowed for vibrant and detailed color reproduction. The illustration is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a well known animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithographs were produced by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final image. The lustrous sheen of the Minorca’s feathers and the intricate shading on the comb and wattles highlight the meticulous craftsmanship involved in this artistic technique. Condition Summary The print remains in very good condition, with well preserved colors and sharp details. Some minor age related toning and slight foxing spots can be seen along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper is stable with only minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print...

The Distinguished Black Dutch White-Crested Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Black Dutch White-Crested chickens, an ornamental breed admired for its elegant black plumage, dramatic white crest, and refined posture. The print, titled Zwarte Hollandsche Witkuiven, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided an extensive study of poultry breeding, highlighting both practical and decorative breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century. The White-Crested Black Dutch chicken is closely related to the Polish breed, sharing its distinctive feathered crest but with a stronger historical connection to the Netherlands. These birds were particularly favored for their striking contrast of jet black plumage and a full, bright white crest, making them highly desirable for ornamental poultry collections. The breed was known for its calm nature, excellent foraging ability, and consistent white egg production. This lithograph was produced using chromolithography, a highly detailed 19th century printing technique that allowed for richly colored and finely rendered illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a renowned animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithographs were created by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final print. The intricate feather detailing and dramatic contrast between the birds' black bodies and snowy white crests in this print highlight the craftsmanship involved in this technique. Condition Summary The print remains in very good condition, with well preserved colors and intricate details. Some minor age related toning and light foxing spots are visible, particularly along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper remains stable, with minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print...

The Distinguished Spanish Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Spanish chickens, a distinguished breed known for its sleek black plumage, prominent white facial patches, and regal bearing. The print, titled Spanjaarden, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided detailed insights into poultry breeding, selection, and care, reflecting the great interest in specialized breeds during the 19th century. The Spanish chicken, often referred to as the White Faced Black Spanish, is one of the oldest Mediterranean poultry breeds. It is believed to have been developed in Spain before being refined in England during the 18th and 19th centuries. This breed is best recognized for its glossy black feathers, bright red comb, and large white earlobes and facial skin, giving it a striking contrast that made it highly desirable for exhibition purposes. Spanish chickens were prized for their strong egg laying abilities, producing large white eggs...

The Striking Malay Chicken - A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Malay chickens, an ancient and powerful breed kn...

The Majestic Feathered Langshan A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Langshan chickens with feathered legs, a hig...

The Elegant White Cochinchina A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph This striking 19th century chromolithograph presents a pair of White Cochinchina chickens, a majestic breed ad...

Title: Elegant Gourd-Shaped Vases with Ornamental Patterns – Plate IX from Section VI of G. A. Audsley’s Decorative Art Series Description: Plate IX from Section VI of G. A. Audsley...

Great image of a Parrot Crossbill Unframed. It gives you the option of perhaps making a set up using your own choice of frames. Lithograph after Alexander Francis Lydon. Original ...

Great image of a Spotted Flycatcher Unframed. It gives you the option of perhaps making a set up using your own choice of frames. Lithograph after Alexander Francis Lydon. Origina...

Sensational image by Gustave Doré Woodcut engraving Published C.1880 Unframed. Free shipping

Title: The Guardian of the Bell – Plate VIII from G. A. Audsley’s Japanese-Inspired Chromolithographic Series Description: Plate VIII from Section V of G. A. Audsley’s collection is...

Great image of a Rook Unframed. It gives you the option of perhaps making a set up using your own choice of frames. Lithograph after Alexander Francis Lydon. Original color Publi...

Title: Intricate Patterns of Japanese Fan Design – Plate IV from Section VII Description: This stunning chromolithograph, Plate IV from Section VII of G. A. Audsley’s decorative a...

Antique print, titled: 'Reichenbachia - Tab 47 - Cattleya amethystoglossa.' - Gorgeous / impressive large folio size antique print of the Orchid: Cattleya amethystoglossa, amethy...

This Vanity Fair caricature from June 2, 1888, features Mr. J. H. Blackburne, a distinguished figure in the world of chess, as indicated by the simple but telling caption "Chess." Joseph Henry Blackburne, known as "The Black Death," was an influential British chess...

Description of the Prints with Latin and English Names Clianthus Dampieri English Name: Glory Pea or Dampier's Clianthus Description: This print features striking, bright red flower...

17th and 18th Century Ornamental Arts Print by H. Dolmetsch – Embroidery and Giltwork This striking antique print by H. Dolmetsch, published in Stuttgart by Jul. Hoffmann in the lat...

Set of 4 French Renaissance Prints by H. Dolmetsch from Ornamentenschatz, 19th C. This exquisite set of four 19th-century prints showcases the opulent and varied design traditions o...

Set of Four Italian Renaissance Decorative Prints by H. Dolmetsch, 1890s This striking set of four chromolithographic plates presents a vivid celebration of Italian Renaissance deco...

Title: Fukuchi Gen'ichiro - 1885 Woodblock Print from *Instructive Models of Lofty Ambitions* by Kobayashi Kiyochika Description: This 1885 color woodblock print, created by the re...

Romanesque-Gothic Architectural and Floor Designs by H. Dolmetsch, c.1880 This rare matched pair of original chromolithographs features intricate Romanesque and Gothic designs by Ge...

These are three botanical prints from "Les Plantes à Feuillage Coloré: Tome Second," published in Paris in 1880 by J. Rothschild, Editeur. Each print depicts a single plant leaf with...

Set of 3 Byzantine Style Prints by H. Dolmetsch from Ornamentenschatz, 1880s This vibrant set of three antique prints showcases the richness of Byzantine ornamentation as interprete...

Celtic Manuscript Illumination Print by H. Dolmetsch, Germany ca. 1887 This richly detailed chromolithograph of Celtic manuscript art was created by German artist and designer Herma...

Set of Three 19th Century Moorish Architectural Prints by H. Dolmetsch This remarkable set of three 19th-century prints captures the refined complexity of Moorish and Arab-Moorish o...

Arabesque Decorative Arts: 19th-Century Islamic Ornament Prints by H. Dolmetsch Description: This exquisite set of three antique prints originates from *Der Ornamentenschatz*, the m...

Antique Roman Architectural and Mosaic Ornament Prints, Published 1887 This striking set of two antique prints offers a detailed and elegant visual survey of ancient Roman decorativ...

Set of 3 Antique Greek Architecture and Ornament Prints from 1887, Neoclassical This exceptional set of three antique prints offers a detailed and inspiring look at the richness of ...

Antique Japanese Decorative Art Prints Featuring Lacquerwork and Textile Motifs This exquisite pair of antique prints showcases the geometric elegance and ornate richness of traditi...

Title: A Symphony of Nature – Plate IX from G. A. Audsley’s Japanese-Inspired Decorative Series Description: Plate IX from Section V of G. A. Audsley’s ...

This Vanity Fair caricature, dated April 4, 1885, features John Roberts Jr., famously known as 'The Champion Roberts.' The illustration depicts him engaged in a game of billiards, a ...

Seaside Resorts of Australia – Illustrated London News, 1889 This vibrant hand-colored wood engraving, published in *The Illustrated London News* on October 12, 1889, provides a p...

Edison’s Phonograph at the Crystal Palace and Transatlantic Messaging, 1888 This hand-colored wood engraving, published in *The Illustrated London News* on July 14, 1888, illustra...

Title: 'Elegant 1880 Lithographs of Ducks: White-headed Duck and Northern Pintail' These beautifully hand-colored lithographs, presented in a cream matting board, were published in ...

Title: Tranquility in Monochrome – Plate VI from G. A. Audsley’s Japanese-Inspired Chromolithographic Collection Description: Plate VI from Section V of G. A. Audsley’s chromolithog...

Title: Japanese Figurines Depicting Warriors, Deities, and Everyday Scenes – Plate III, Section VIII Description: This lithograph from Plate III, Section VIII, presents two rows of ...

Title: Portrait in Golden Frame – Plate III from Section VI of G. A. Audsley’s Decorative Collection Description: Plate III from Section VI of G. A. Audsley’s decorative art series ...

Title: Japanese Lady in Traditional Kimono – Plate VI, Section VIII Description: A stunning lithograph showcasing a Japanese lady dressed in an elaborately...

Title: Japanese Figurines Illustrating Mythological, Ceremonial, and Everyday Scenes – Plate IV, Section VIII Description: This lithograph from Plate IV, Section VIII, showcases two...