Antique Birds of Prey Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816

Antique Birds of Prey Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816

This elegant early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the celebrated Swiss natural history artist Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts three remarkable birds of prey: the red kite (“Falco milvus”), the secretary bird (“Falco serpentarius”), and the golden eagle (“Aquila fulva”). Produced in 1816, the print reflects the fascination with zoology, scientific exploration, and exotic wildlife that characterized the Enlightenment and Romantic periods.

The composition is exceptionally refined, with each bird carefully isolated against a softly toned cream background, allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the graceful forms and detailed plumage of the species. The upper red kite perches calmly upon a branch, while the secretary bird stands elegantly below with its long legs and distinctive silhouette. Opposite, the golden eagle is rendered with impressive dignity and strength, perched firmly upon a rocky outcrop.

Karl Joseph Brodtmann was among the pioneers of natural history lithography in Europe and remains admired for his refined combination of scientific accuracy and artistic sophistication. His works possess a delicacy and decorative quality that distinguish them from many more rigid zoological illustrations of the era. The subtle hand coloring and spacious composition seen here create a particularly elegant and atmospheric presentation.

Birds of prey are among the most desirable subjects within antique ornithological art due to their symbolic associations with power, nobility, exploration, and wilderness. This example combines three visually distinctive raptors within a single balanced composition, making it especially attractive both to collectors and interior designers.

The generous negative space and restrained palette give the print a surprisingly modern appearance that works exceptionally well in sophisticated interiors. It is particularly suitable for libraries, studies, country houses, gentleman’s clubs, safari-inspired interiors, dark academia spaces, boutique hotel interiors, or curated gallery walls focused on natural history and exploration.

The visual presentation matters enormously with this piece. Framed in dark walnut with wide oatmeal matting, the lithograph takes on a rich museum-like appearance with warmth and depth. Black lacquer or lightly gilt frames also complement the muted coloration beautifully and enhance the scholarly elegance of the composition.

The print is an original antique lithograph from 1816, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale with the original.

Condition report:

Good antique condition with age-related toning, scattered light foxing, and minor marginal wear consistent with age. Original hand coloring remains attractive and well preserved.

Framing tips:

This lithograph displays exceptionally well in dark walnut, black lacquer, or lightly gilt frames paired with a wide ivory or oatmeal mat. Its refined ornithological subject and warm natural palette make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, country interiors, gentleman’s clubs, safari-inspired spaces, or sophisticated gallery walls.

Technique: Hand-colored lithograph

Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1816