Ornithological watercolor drawing early 19th century antique original painting

Description: Auction is for an early 19th century (might be earlier) ornithological watercolor and graphite on paper depicting what is likely to be an example of Gorsachius Melanolophus, otherwise known as a Malayan Night Heron. Acquired at a William Bunch auction in Concordville, PA back in the 1990s. Tucked it away, while from time-to-time hoping to identify its creator. Long story short, popped a picture of it into the Google Images search recently and lo-and-behold an almost identical watercolor painting in addition to a related engraving popped up. You can find both examples online for comparison if you search with my image just as I did since putting links in my description is forbidden. Images on the light table (full and detail) reveal a partial watermark that I believe was used by the Dutch firm of J Honig & Zoon during the 18th century though I'm still digging around for more information about them and the years they were in business. Written in graphite, below the tail, is the Latin name (as best as I can make it out) 'Limnophyllas Marmoratus' and beneath that may read as 'Rose' but I am not certain. This type of work is normally outside my comfort zone but fell in love with it when I saw it long ago at auction and it remains highly intriguing to me to this day. The quality is exceptional and the bird has great character, unlike numerous other ornithological watercolors that simply lack personality. Goes without saying it will require some conservation to bring it up to snuff for framing. Will undoubtedly have some more to add to this description, as well as providing more images. Condition and terms are complete so posting it while I fiddle around with adding more thoughts and images. Close-ups on the way. CONDITION: Areas of foxing. Horizontal fold through bird's lower body for the entire width of the painting. Small losses to the paper and the surface in the area of the bird's feet. Small pieces (noticeably center left and upper left corner) detached from where the painting had been adhered to an old backing. Previously strengthened from behind with a strip of paper along the lower edge. This is the condition I acquired it in some twenty five plus years ago. SIZE: Sheet is generally around 16 by 9 3/8 inches. SHIPPING: FedEx 2Day. Please ensure the address you would like this delivered to is the correct one when completing eBay's checkout as the delivery address cannot be changed after you make payment. An adult signature will be required at delivery. I pack very carefully to ensure this will reach you safely in the condition I have listed it. Been a member of eBay since 1999. Do my best to try and make you happy. Feel free to message me through eBay if you may have any questions or photo requests. If you have a moment, please check out my other listings. Thank you, Larry

Price: 1790 USD

Location: Bradenton, Florida

End Time: 2024-10-14T21:28:12.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD