A few more today from a second batch of fine c. 1840s watercolors, which I went back to my source in Germany to scoop up after having sold the last several I had quickly. This is not a hand-colored engraving, it is an original, very finely executed ink and watercolor drawing, and my photos do it no justice; the color and detail is just glorious! One sees hand-colored engravings in this manner (Bertuch et al) but quite a different thing in watercolor, and with the fine execution amplifying a sense of wonder at a creatures already quite wondrous! In addition to the radiant colors and patterns of their plumes, I especially love the faces and postures of these particular birds, the yellow one at top left most of all--it looks so soulful! Clockwise here I believe a European Serin, European Goldfinch, and Java Sparrow. Exquisite rendering, exquisite creatures.

Approx 10 3/4 x 8 1/4  and in very good condition, richer and more beautiful in hand.