Set of 3 Antique Bird's Egg Prints by Naumann, circa 1895

About the Item

The set of three antique prints depicting various bird's eggs is a fine example of the detailed ornithological work that Johann Andreas Naumann, son of Johann Friedrich Naumann, contributed to the updated versions of his father's comprehensive and authoritative work, "Naturgeschichte der Vögel Mitteleuropas" (Natural History of the Birds of Central Europe). Published around 1895, these prints illustrate the eggs of several bird species with remarkable precision. The collection includes the large, speckled eggs of the Great Bustard (Otis tarda), known for being one of the heaviest flying birds, and the elongated, pale eggs of the Common Crane (Grus grus), a bird celebrated for its elaborate mating dances and long migrations. Also featured are the eggs of the Large-billed Guillemot (Uria aalge), which are typically pear-shaped and vary widely in color and patterning to help camouflage them on the rocky cliffs where they are laid. The Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle), another sea bird, lays eggs that are more subtly marked, often in hues of white or pale blue with dark speckles. These prints would have been of significant interest not only to ornithologists and naturalists of the time but also to educators and the general public, as they provide insight into the breeding habits and biological diversity of European bird species. The accuracy and artistry of these prints reflect the meticulous nature of scientific illustration in the late 19th century, a time when such detailed documentation was essential for the study and understanding of avian life.

Dimensions:

Height: 15.75 in (40 cm)Width: 11.42 in (29 cm)Depth: 0.02 in (0.5 mm)

Sold As:

Set of 3

Materials and Techniques:

Paper

Period:

Late 19th Century

Date of Manufacture:

circa 1895

Condition:

General age-related toning, minor wear. Blank verso, please study images carefully.