19th Century Eared Grebe Wood Engraving | Francis Orpen Morris

This original 19th-century ornithological print is a hand-colored wood engraving by British naturalist Francis Orpen Morris, depicting an Eared Grebe. The print was published as part of his celebrated A History of British Birds, various editions of which appeared between 1851 and 1903.

The Eared Grebe is rendered with the fine detail characteristic of 19th-century natural history illustration, with hand-applied colour adding depth and distinction to the engraved image. Morris's A History of British Birds brought together detailed illustrations and descriptions of British birdlife and remains an important reference for collectors of historic ornithological prints.

The combination of wood engraving and hand colouring reflects the craftsmanship of early natural history publishing, when illustrated books were an important means of documenting and studying the natural world.

The print is in excellent condition and is cardboard mounted with an inner textured black cardboard frame. Measuring 14 × 11 inches, it is well suited to collectors of antique bird prints, natural history art, ornithological illustrations and 19th-century British prints.

Details

Artist / Naturalist: Francis Orpen Morris
Subject: Eared Grebe
Source: A History of British Birds
Period: 19th Century
Technique: Hand-colored wood engraving
Format: Ornithological print
Publication: A History of British Birds, various editions published between 1851 and 1903
Dimensions: L14 × H11 in
Mount: Cardboard mount with inner textured black cardboard frame
Condition: Excellent condition
Authenticity: Comes with an authenticity certificate from The Blue Trunk.