Defending the Flock: The Poultry's Stand Against the Hawk, Hand-colored ca.1860

Title: Poultry attacked by a Hawk - Die Hühner und der Raubvogel"

Detailed illustration of poultry being attacked by a hawk. Here is a description of the entire print:

1. Setting: The scene is set in a rural or natural environment with lush greenery and a serene landscape. In the background, there is a cliff with what appears to be a castle or structure on top.

2. Main Elements:

- **Poultry**: There are several chickens, roosters, and chicks scattered throughout the scene. They exhibit various states of alarm and motion, suggesting panic and distress.

- **Predatory Birds**: A hawk is depicted swooping down from the sky, clearly the source of the poultry's distress. Another bird, possibly a swallow, is also shown flying nearby.

3. Foreground Details:

- The poultry are illustrated with intricate detail, showcasing their feathers, beaks, and claws. Chicks are shown huddling together or running, indicating their fear.

- The hawk is captured mid-dive, wings spread, with a menacing look as it approaches the flock.

4. Text:

- The text below the illustration is in two languages: German and English.

- **German**: "Die Hühner und der Raubvogel" which translates to "The Chickens and the Bird of Prey."

- **English**: "Poultry attacked by a Hawk."

5. Artists:

- The print is signed by "M. Hondekoeter pinx," indicating the original painting was by Melchior d'Hondecoeter, a Dutch painter known for his bird and poultry paintings.

- "A. H. Payne sc." indicates the engraving was done by A. H. Payne.

The scene captures the tension and dynamic movement of a sudden predator attack on a peaceful poultry flock.

Type of print: Steel engraving

Color: Original hand coloring

Engraver: Albert Henry Payne (1812-1902)

Painter: Melchior Hondekoeter (1636-1695)

Where published: Dresden

When published: Ca. 1860

Condition: Very good. Outstanding bright and beautiful hand coloring.

Image seize: 12,5 x 16,5 cm (ca. 4.9 x 6.5")