Close-ups
The Charming Krielhoenders - A 19th Century Poultry Lithograph
$270 (£205, €240)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- Not stated
- Size
- 10.6 × 7.9 in (27 × 20 cm)
- Condition
- Good. The lithograph is in good condition, with deep blacks and well-preserved colors that maintain their original vibrancy. Some mild foxing is present along the edges, a natural occurrence in antique paper due to age.
- Section
- Birds
- Reference
- f_44067642
- Color
- Printed color
What the condition grades mean
- Excellent
- Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
- Very good
- Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
- Good
- Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
- Fair
- Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
The Charming Krielhoenders A 19th Century Poultry Lithograph
This delightful 19th-century chromolithograph, titled Krielhoenders, depicts a lively group of bantam chickens, or krielhoenders, in a rustic farmyard setting. Published in 1888 as part of the Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek by Elsevier, this illustration belongs to a series of 40 expertly crafted poultry prints based on the original artwork by Christian Förster. Edited for the Dutch audience by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book served as a comprehensive guide for poultry breeding, detailing various domestic chicken breeds admired for their beauty and utility.
Krielhoenders, or Dutch bantams, are among the smallest domesticated chicken breeds. They are known for their delicate size, lively nature, and striking plumage. These bantams were particularly popular among European breeders, as they required minimal space and were often kept for ornamental purposes. Their friendly disposition and ability to thrive in smaller enclosures made them ideal for both farmsteads and urban households with limited outdoor space.
The composition of the lithograph is full of movement and charm. The rooster, standing confidently atop an overturned watering can, watches over his hens as they forage on the cobblestone ground. The background features a barn interior with tools, hay, and a wooden barrel, adding depth to the rural atmosphere. The rich detailing in the feathers and the careful rendering of light and shadow give this illustration a strikingly realistic appearance.
This print was produced using chromolithography, a refined 19th-century color printing technique. Each layer of color was applied using a separate stone plate, requiring remarkable precision and craftsmanship. The result is a vivid, multi-dimensional image that captures the warmth and texture of the scene. The meticulous attention to shading and detail in the feathers showcases the skill of the lithographer, Christian Förster, whose work in naturalistic illustration remains highly regarded.
Condition Summary
The lithograph is in good condition, with well-preserved colors and sharp details. Some mild foxing is visible around the margins, which is typical for prints of this age. The edges remain intact, making it an excellent candidate for framing.
Framing Tips
To best display and preserve this antique lithograph, consider the following framing suggestions
- Choose an acid-free mat in a warm cream or light tan shade to complement the earthy tones of the illustration
- A dark wood or gold-gilded frame will enhance the historical charm of the piece while adding an elegant touch
- Opt for museum-grade UV-protective glass to prevent fading and protect the delicate paper from light exposure
- Consider a shadowbox-style frame to add depth and emphasize the fine details of the artwork
This print is a wonderful representation of 19th-century poultry illustration, capturing the charm and character of bantam chickens in a beautifully detailed farmyard setting. Whether part of a larger collection or displayed as a standalone artwork, it offers a nostalgic glimpse into the world of historical poultry breeding.
