Steller's Eider (likely titled 'Steller's Duck' or 'Steller's Pochard' in original publication)
Hand-colored print (etching and engraving) on paper • Prideaux John Selby (British, 1788–1867); from his landmark work 'Illustrations of British Ornithology'
Style & Movement
Natural History Illustration / Neo-Classical Realism
Medium & Technique
Intaglio print (etching and engraving) finished with hand-applied watercolor washes. The technique utilizes fine lines for textural detail in feathers and stippling for tonal transitions.
Creation Period
Early 19th Century (c. 1821–1834)
Dimensions & Format
Life-size (Elephant Folio format), approximately 21 x 27 inches (53 x 68 cm); Landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A profile depiction of a male Steller's Eider (Polysticta stelleri) standing on a rocky shoreline with sparse coastal vegetation. The composition emphasizes scientific accuracy, showing the bird's distinctive plumage and bill shape against a minimal landscape background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible signs of age-related toning and possible environmental stress from improper framing.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD (depending on the authenticity of the hand-coloring and paper condition)
Auction Estimate
$600 - $900 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of a dispersed folio from a library or private collection of Selby's 'Illustrations of British Ornithology'. A modern tag suggests it was recently held in a retail or gallery setting.
Art Historical Significance
P.J. Selby was a contemporary of John James Audubon; his 'Illustrations of British Ornithology' was the first work to depict British birds at life-size. It is a masterpiece of early 19th-century scientific recording.
Notable Features
The plate number 'Plate LXII*' or similar may be visible at the top right (partially obscured). The distinctive sharp engraving lines are characteristic of Selby's own needle work on the copper plates.
Condition Issues
Visible browning/toning of the paper (acidification), mild foxing spots may be present under the glass, and light waves in the paper suggesting it is not mounted to archival standards. Light reflection in photo obscures center detail.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current non-archival frame. Remount using acid-free, buffered materials and UV-protective museum glass. Consult a paper conservator for possible deacidification to stabilize the paper.