The Elegant Golden Spangled Hamburg Chicken - A 19th Century Poultry Lithograph

The Elegant Golden Spangled Hamburg Chicken A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph

This exquisite 19th century chromolithograph features a pair of Golden Spangled Hamburg chickens, an elegant and highly regarded breed known for its striking plumage, graceful build, and excellent egg laying capabilities. The print, titled Goudlaken Hamburgers, originates from Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek, an Illustrated Poultry Book published in 1888 by Elsevier. Compiled by Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn., this book provided a comprehensive guide to poultry breeding, highlighting both practical and ornamental breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century.

Hamburg chickens are one of the oldest known domesticated poultry breeds, with records tracing them back to at least the 14th century. They were particularly popular in the Netherlands, Germany, and England due to their striking feather patterns and exceptional egg laying abilities. The Golden Spangled Hamburg, as depicted in this lithograph, is a particularly eye catching variety, featuring a rich golden brown base color accented with bold black spangling. The rooster stands tall with its flowing tail feathers and proud posture, while the hen, slightly smaller, displays the same intricate feather pattern in a more compact form.

This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a meticulous 19th century printing technique that allowed for vibrant and finely detailed illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a skilled animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithographs were produced by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final print. The detailed feather patterning and the warm golden hues in this print highlight the craftsmanship involved in this artistic technique.

Condition Summary

The print remains in good condition, with well preserved colors and sharp details. Some minor age related toning and visible foxing spots are present along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper remains stable, with slight signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print enthusiasts and historical agricultural collectors.

Framing Tips

To best preserve and display this lithograph, consider the following framing techniques

- Use acid free matting to prevent long term deterioration. A warm beige or light gold mat will enhance the golden hues of the Hamburg’s plumage

- Choose UV protective glass to safeguard the colors from fading due to light exposure

- A wooden frame in deep walnut, dark mahogany, or antique gold will complement the rich tones of the print

- Float mounting can be used if the original paper edges are to be highlighted, adding a historical and museum quality presentation

This lithograph is an exceptional example of 19th century poultry illustration, capturing the beauty and refinement of one of the most visually distinctive and productive chicken breeds. Whether displayed in a farmhouse, study, or antique print collection, it remains a timeless and historically significant piece of agricultural art.