This duo of hand-colored ornithological lithographs, printed by Lith. de Burggraaff à Bruxelles and published by Th. Lejeune, dates from the early period of Belgian lithography, circa 1828 to 1833. The works, identified as plate 1 and plate 19 from a larger natural history series, depict 'La Gélinote' with 'Le Petit Tétras' and 'Le Grand Aigle' with 'Le Balbazar', respectively.
The prints are produced on paper and are among the earliest Brussels publications in which the lithographic technique was combined with manual color application. The hand coloring is transparent and detailed, enhancing the faithful representation of the birds. Both works have been professionally framed by De Witte Leeuw in Antwerp, featuring conservation passe-partouts and wooden frames that protect the historical integrity of the paper.
The lithographs are in very good condition, befitting the considerable age of the works. The paper has developed an authentic patina, while the original color intensity of the hand coloring has been preserved. The margins are intact and the print quality still displays a high degree of sharpness.
These classic natural history prints come into their own perfectly in a formal study, a library, or a classic interior. The coherent character of the duo makes them particularly suitable for presentation together as a historical and aesthetic ensemble.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBrown, Beige, Multi ColorMaterialWood, Plastic, PaperNumber of items2First ownerYesOrientationPortraitArt sizeSmallHeight31 cmWidth23 cmSigns of usageDiscoloring, Stains