Engraved birds plate (etching) cut off from an old Italian ornithology book after Buffon illustrated by Italian engravers and published around 1820. Beautifully detailed original hand colouring. Throughout the XIXth century edtions of the famous Histoire naturelle from Buffon were published in various languages and colored and engraved by various local artists. This one is signed G B Torcellan inc. for Giovanni Battista Torcellan in the bottom right corner.

This authentic engraved bird plate is hand coloured and printed on period paper which shows signs of age, but still retains its flexibility and soundness. Margins have been irregularly cut but the plate retains its original framing line. Colours are still vivid. This printed plate is an interesting original artifact from an era long past. 

The birds depicted are the following (Tavola 92):

1.       Il Picchio Verde di Goa

2.       Il Picchio di S.Domingo

3.       Il Gran Picchio di Cajenna

Old plates are highly decorative and make a very original and sophisticated gift. Would look gorgeous when framed.

This wood (or copper) engraved bird plate is more than one century old, so some signs of aging should be expected: some minimal age related toning and some foxing or spotting. One worn spot under top right side bird. Still, it is rather well preserved given the age. One piece of the original paper has been taped at the bottom for ease of framing (please look carefully at the pictures).

Dimensions:

Inside frame 9,5 x 16,5 cm; overall surface 12 x 22,2 cm

État/Condition:

In fair condition, lightly age-toned, scattered spotting and foxing, one worn spot on paper. Overall in fair condition and worth framing. Look carefully at the pictures.