While our images are electronically watermarked, the antique prints themselves are not. 

Spotted King Fisher EDB335 $185
Each print measures approximately  7 3/4 inches by 9 3/4 inches.

We are delighted to offer a selection of bird prints from the increasingly rare & treasured A Natural History of Uncommon Birds (1743-1751) and Gleaning of Natural History (1758-1764) by George Edwards.  Initially published as two separate works, they are now considered as one, with 362 plates in all, with 318 of birds & the balance of various mammals, fish & insects.  It was heralded as the most important of all Bird Books, both from an artistic and an ornithological perspective, and time has certainly not dimmed either its luster or appeal.

George Edwards was an English draughtsman and a skilled observer of birds and one of the most prominent ornithologists of his day.  He worked as Librarian to the Royal College of Physicians, where he was later elected a fellow, and was honored with the Gold Medal of the Royal Society.  As the Librarian to the Royal College of Physicians, he oversaw a library of 8,000 volumes.  The small honorarium he received for this post liberated him to pursue his ornithological studies and drawings.  He died in West Ham, which was also his birthplace, in 1773.

Natural History and Gleanings was illustrated for the first time many foreign species often drawn from live specimens held in captivity in London.  Edwards etched his own plates and then hand colored several copies before supervising others in the coloring.  The result is a work of superb skill and breathtaking color that remains ever popular and is now increasingly rare.  Such was the impact of Natural History and Gleanings, that Edwards is considered to have almost single-handedly popularized the art of bird and animal illustration, and is thus known as “The Father of British Ornithology.”

(References include: Fine Bird Books 1700-1900, pg. 93 and Dictionary of Bird Artists of the World, pg. 232)

These prints are in excellent condition with the ORIGINAL hand coloring still very vivid and vibrant, with no oxidation of colors.  The paper is strong & chain-lined and light creamy in color.  Each print measures approximately 9 3/4 inches long by 7 3/4 inches wide.  The margins are very tight, with the plate marks close or absent in some cases.  As the hand colouring is so vibrant we did decide to offer these prints as the superbly decorative quality of the Edwards transcends the deficits.  To be able to present all the parrots is a rare honour, along with the best of the rest.  They will also be a rare bargain, as with full margins the best of the Edwards parrots are $600-$900.

We accept credit cards, PayPal, checks, and money orders.  Washington state residents pay Washington state sales tax.  Shipping for this item is $8.95.  Items can be combined to save on postage.  Our environment is smoke free.  We pack professionally using only new materials.  All items are beautifully wrapped and suitable for sending directly as gifts.  You may return any item within 7 days if not satisfied.  To order, you may call us at 1-888-PANTEEK, or email.