"Falco Subbuteo"

A beautiful hand colored plate of this handscome bird of prey by John Gould (1804-81), the most prolific ornithological artist in 19th century Britain.  The Birds of Great Britain was a five volume work containing 367 plates and was one of Gould's last big projects. 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 full-size, in life-like positions with background elements such as habitat, nest, young, insects, etc. The depiction of birds was John Gould's passion, and this plate showcases his great talent at capturing every detail. The falcon holds a dragonfly in its talons.

21 1/2 x 14 1/2 inches, sheet
Hand colored lithograph.
Finest possible condition save light mat staining at edges.
With accompanying text.