“Aquila Chrysaetos, Briss “ (The Golden Eagle)

A beautiful hand colored plate by John Gould (1804-81) the most prolific ornithological artist in the 19^th century Britain. The Birds of Great Brtain was a five volume work containing 367 plates and was Gould’s last big project. It is often considered his finest work. In it he utilizes the formula he had developed in earlier books in which each hand colored lithograph includes a male and female pair shown life size, in life like positions with background elements such as habitat, nest, young etc. The depiction of birds was John Gould’s great passion and this plate showcases his great talent. He worked on designs for his books up to the very last days of this life.

The golden eagle is one of the most beautiful North American birds of prey. Currently they are a protected species due to threat to their habitat. A sacred bird to Native America, this bird was the model for the aquila – the standard used by roman legions.

Hand colored lithograph.

21 x 13 ¾ inches sheet size.

Excellent original condition with full original color, untrimmed margins, clean and sharp impression.