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Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hooded Merganser by Johann Michael Seligmann, 1770
$650 (£490, €580)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1770
- Size
- 14.6 × 9.8 in (37 × 25 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Some handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality.
- Period
- 18th century
- Artist or book
- Mark Catesby
- Section
- Birds
- Reference
- f_42337982
Title: Die Gehäubte Ente - Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hooded Merganser by Johann Michael Seligmann, 18th Century
This remarkable hand-colored engraving, titled *Die Gehäubte Ente*, features the Hooded Merganser (*Anas christatus*), celebrated for its distinctive crest. Part of Johann Michael Seligmann’s acclaimed *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), this piece is based on the work of notable naturalists, such as Mark Catesby, and showcases Seligmann’s ability to combine scientific precision with artistic elegance.
The plate, numbered "Tab. LXXXVIII," captures the Hooded Merganser in a striking side profile, highlighting its impressive black-and-white crest and intricate plumage detail. Set against a subtle natural backdrop, the bird is depicted resting on calm waters, adding depth and serenity to the composition. The French title, *Canard huppe*, reinforces the engraving's historical importance as a documentation of exotic bird species.
Perfect for collectors of antique ornithological prints or enthusiasts of 18th-century natural history art, this engraving exemplifies Seligmann’s dedication to beauty and accuracy. His works are highly prized for their scientific value and artistic charm, making this Hooded Merganser illustration a distinguished addition to any collection of vintage bird illustrations.
