Bird Print of the White-Tailed or Grey or Eurasian Sea Eagle, 1894

Antique chromolithograph of the White-tailed Eagle by von Riesenthal, 1894

This impressive large-format chromolithograph depicts the White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), one of Europe’s most iconic birds of prey, rendered with remarkable accuracy and grandeur. The eagle is shown as an “altes Männchen” (old male), perched upon a coastal rock with waves crashing beneath it and the sun setting over the horizon. Its massive hooked beak, piercing yellow eye, and powerful talons are faithfully reproduced, while the rich brown plumage with contrasting pale head and tail highlights its distinctive appearance.

The plate comes from Otto von Riesenthal’s Jagd und Tierleben in Deutschland (Hunting and Animal Life in Germany), published in the late 19th century. Von Riesenthal (1830–1898), a German forester, ornithologist, and artist, became renowned for his natural history illustrations that combined scientific precision with dramatic settings, capturing both the anatomy and spirit of wildlife. The lithography was executed by Th. Fischer in Cassel (Kassel), whose skillful chromolithographic process gives the feathers depth and the surrounding seascape a painterly quality.

The White-tailed Eagle, sometimes called the Sea Eagle, is the largest European eagle and an apex predator of coastal and river landscapes. Revered in folklore and heraldry, it is also a conservation success story, having recovered from near extinction in parts of Europe during the 20th century. This 19th-century plate reflects not only scientific interest but also the cultural admiration for the species during Riesenthal’s time.

Such works appeal to collectors of ornithological prints, natural history art, and German chromolithography. Its dramatic composition makes it an excellent display piece, equally suited for private study collections or decorative interiors.

Condition report: Good condition with strong, clean colors. Light age toning to the paper margins, consistent with age. Plate mark faintly visible. No major tears or creases. Verso blank.

Framing tips: Best presented in a wide ivory or cream mat to draw out the subtle tones of the feathers. A dark wood or walnut frame will enhance the majestic subject, while a gilt frame will emphasize its historical character. For a more contemporary look, black framing with archival mounting will provide sharp contrast.

Technique: Chromolithograph

Maker: Otto von Riesenthal, Cassel, 1894