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Elegant Hand-Colored Print of the Razor-Bill Auk by John Gould, c.1832
€525 ($590, £445, €525)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1832
- Size
- 21.5 × 14.6 in (54.5 × 37 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Very good condition for its age. General age-related toning present. Very small marginal tears and paper holes to the left margin (outside the image area), likely from previous binding. Image area remains clean and vibrant.
- Period
- Early 19th century
- Artist or book
- John Gould
- Section
- Birds
- Reference
- f_25807722
Elegant Hand-Colored Print of the Razor-Bill Auk by John Gould, c.1832
This beautifully detailed lithograph features the Razor-Bill Auk (Alca torda), presented in dramatic coastal terrain. The image comes from The Birds of Europe (1832–1837), the monumental ornithological work by English naturalist and illustrator John Gould. The print shows two razor-bills: one in a standing pose and the other vocalizing, emphasizing both anatomical precision and the bird’s natural behavior.
The razor-bill is a striking seabird of the auk family, known for its black upperparts, white underparts, and distinctive vertically flattened bill with a white line. Breeding on cliffs along the North Atlantic coasts, the species is a strong swimmer and diver, often confused with puffins or murres but distinct in its sharp-lined appearance and bold posture.
John Gould, with contributions from artists such as Elizabeth Gould and Edward Lear, elevated ornithological publishing to an art form. His combination of scientific integrity and aesthetic sensitivity made his publications essential for both researchers and collectors. This particular depiction of the razor-bill is one of the most iconic representations of northern seabirds in the 19th century and captures the dramatic essence of the rocky habitats these birds favor.
Gould’s Birds of Europe series was not only a scientific milestone but also a testament to Victorian fascination with nature, exploration, and exotic wildlife. These prints remain among the most collectible of antique ornithological illustrations.
Condition report: Very good condition for its age. General age-related toning present. Very small marginal tears and paper holes to the left margin (outside the image area), likely from previous binding. Image area remains clean and vibrant. Please inspect the image carefully for details.
Framing tips: This vertical-format print would look superb in a black or charcoal frame with a white or off-white mat, allowing the sharp black plumage of the birds to stand out dramatically. UV-protective glazing is recommended to preserve the subtle hand-coloring.
Overall size: 37 x 54.5 cm
Image size: 32 x 35 cm
