I went back to my source in Germany to scoop up another handful of these gorgeous c. 1840s zoological watercolors, having sold the last several I had quickly. This is not a hand-colored engraving, it is an original, very finely executed ink and watercolor drawing, and my photos do it no justice; the color and detail is just glorious! Whether made in advance of, or after, an engraving for a zoological volume I am not certain--whatever the case, quite a different thing in watercolor, and with the fine execution amplifying a sense of wonder at this already quite wondrous bird and egg filled nest! The name of the bird reflects the tendency of most species to construct elaborate pear-shaped nests--woven from soft plant materials as well as wool, animal hair, and often spiderwebs too, and often with false entrances in addition to a veiled true one-- which are suspended from twigs and branches in trees as depicted here. A poignant portrait of the love of a mother I'd say!
Approx 10 3/4 x 8 1/4 and in very good condition, richer and more beautiful in hand.
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