Pair of ornithological engravings Paradise Birds 1 and 4 – Levaillant XI

Beautiful pair of French ornithological engravings from the early 19th century, from the work 'Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux de Paradis' by François Levaillant. The plates depict the large and small Emerald Bird of Paradise, drawn by Jacques Barraband and engraved by Pérée, printed by Langlois. Each bird is shown perched on a branch, displaying plumage with long, drooping orange/salmon or golden yellow feathers, accented with characteristic turquoise touches. The colouring has been done by hand, with a naturalistic precision typical of the French school of the Napoleonic period and the Restoration. The engravings are framed under glass in black frames with a gold brass fillet, featuring a wide cream mount. The paper shows a slight uniform patina, perfectly consistent with the age of the pieces and attesting to their authenticity. These plates are reference naturalist documents, sought after by collectors of old prints and enthusiasts of natural history. Dimensions (per frame): 65 X 47 X 1.5 cm – Weight: 1.5 kg. Sold as a pair.