Close-ups
Framed and on the wall
Frame and rooms are illustrations of how the print could look; the description says what is included.
Antique Leopard & Panther Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816
$760 (£575, €680)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1816
- Size
- 14.3 × 17.6 in (36.3 × 44.7 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Good antique condition with age-related toning, scattered light foxing, and minor wear consistent with age. Original hand coloring remains attractive and well preserved.
- Period
- Early 19th century
- Section
- Mammals
- Reference
- f_50191192
Antique Leopard & Panther Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816
This striking early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the celebrated Swiss natural history artist Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts several exotic wild cats, including a leopard, panther, and related feline species, rendered with remarkable vitality and decorative elegance. Produced in 1816, the print exemplifies the fascination with zoology, exploration, and exotic animals that swept through Europe during the Enlightenment and Romantic periods.
The composition is exceptionally dynamic, featuring the animals arranged within a rocky landscape setting that adds drama and movement to the scene. A spotted leopard crouches alertly in the foreground, while a darker panther rests with captured prey nearby, and another feline figure descends across the rocks above. The varied poses and expressive facial details give the sheet considerable theatrical presence, distinguishing it from more static scientific illustrations of the era.
Karl Joseph Brodtmann was one of the pioneers of natural history lithography and remains highly admired for his refined combination of scientific precision and artistic sophistication. His works are increasingly sought after by collectors of natural history, safari-themed decoration, and cabinet-of-curiosities material. The subtle hand coloring, fine draftsmanship, and balanced compositions characteristic of Brodtmann’s work are beautifully evident in this example.
Among Brodtmann’s zoological plates, feline subjects are especially desirable due to their universal decorative appeal and strong visual impact. The rich earth tones, spotted coats, and mountainous setting make this print particularly suitable for sophisticated interiors. It works exceptionally well in gentleman’s clubs, safari-inspired interiors, luxury studies, mountain lodge settings, dark academia spaces, eclectic collector interiors, and curated gallery walls.
The visual presentation matters enormously with this piece. Framed in dark walnut with wide oatmeal matting, the lithograph takes on the appearance of a museum-quality decorative object with significant warmth and depth. Black lacquer or subtly gilt frames also complement the print beautifully, emphasizing the dramatic coloration and luxurious character 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 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 dramatic zoological subject and warm natural palette make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, safari-inspired interiors, gentleman’s clubs, mountain lodge settings, or sophisticated gallery walls.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1816
