The Majestic Crèvecœur - A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph

The Majestic Crèvecœur A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph

This striking 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of Crèvecœur chickens, a rare and noble French breed known for its dramatic crest, deep black plumage, and rich culinary history. The print, titled Crèvecœurs, 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 and selection, highlighting both ornamental and productive breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century.

The Crèvecœur is one of the oldest French chicken breeds, dating back to at least the 17th century. It takes its name from the village of Crèvecœur-en-Auge in Normandy, where it was developed as a high quality meat bird. The breed is easily recognizable by its thick crest of feathers, which gives it an elegant and almost theatrical appearance. Crèvecœur chickens have a compact and well muscled body, and their glossy black feathers often display a greenish sheen in natural light. The breed is also known for its calm temperament, making it well suited for farmyard settings. Though primarily raised for meat, Crèvecœurs are also moderate egg layers, producing white eggs.

This lithograph was produced using chromolithography, a meticulous 19th century printing technique that allowed for detailed and richly colored illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by Christian Förster, a skilled animal illustrator of the period. Chromolithographs were created by applying multiple layers of color using separate stone plates, ensuring depth and precision in the final image. The careful shading and fine rendering of the Crèvecœur’s crest and plumage in this print reflect the high level of craftsmanship that characterized this printing method.

Condition Summary

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

Framing Tips

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

- Use acid free matting to prevent long term deterioration. A soft gray or warm ivory mat will complement the rich black tones of the Crèvecœur’s plumage

- Choose UV protective glass to protect the colors from light exposure and fading

- A wooden frame in deep walnut, black lacquer, or dark mahogany will enhance the dramatic contrast of the breed’s dark feathers and red comb

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

This lithograph is an exceptional example of 19th century poultry illustration, capturing the regal and refined presence of one of France’s most historic chicken breeds. Whether displayed in a study, farmhouse, or antique print collection, it remains a timeless and historically significant piece of agricultural art.