One of the greatest triumphs in the art of the etched plate is this monumental work by Prideaux John Selby.  Both he and Audubon faced the same daunting task of attempting to create life-size Ornithological images.  Both were outstanding artists, but Selby was also an etcher which added another dimension to his works.  As described in the Fine Bird Books, "Selby collected and mounted the bird skins, and lovingly etched each life-size bird with peculiar, messy lines of his own design.  The strong figure drawing and inspired needle work result in delightful prints".  Christine Jackson in her book "Bird Etchings" goes on to say, "The copper plates were superbly executed....Tone, shade, and texture were all exploited to the fullest extent and demonstrate the best of which copper etching and engraving were possible".  I just find them quite extraordinary!!  1st and 2nd editions of the book were issued in by Selby using the facilities of Lizars in Edinbugh, but the finest edition of the book was that issued by Henry Bohn beginning in 1841.  The paper was much higher quality and the sky was colored for the first time.  Having seen impressions from the 1st and Bohn editions, I can definitely concur.  The impressions are clean and crisp, the paper is in superior condition, and the coloring is fresh and brilliant.  These are all sized 21 1/2 x 26 1/2 inches and are watermarked, JWhatman 1842.  The plate sizes vary and so these will be listed in the individual descriptions.  They are all in superb condition and are stunning images. PRIDEAUX JOHN SELBY (1788-1867) was a gentleman Squire who was one of the most scholarly figures in the Natural History world of Victorian England.  He was a very keen observer of his surrounding habitats and a magnificent artist and etcher.  His circle of close friends reads like a "Who's Who" of the day.  From Audubon, to Gould, Swainson, and Jardine; Selby was able to enjoy the company of many learned naturalists and very few of them ever missed stopping at his hospitable Twizell House!!  His British Ornithology, also printed on JWhatman elephant folio paper and beautifully engraved on copper, was the only publication that could rival the great folio of Audubon. 

Photos of the prints in various mat designs will be added later.

Please click on the thumbnails below for larger images and details!!