Selasphorus Scintilla (Scintillant Hummingbird)
Hand-colored lithograph on paper • John Gould (English, 1804-1881) and Henry Constantine Richter
Style & Movement
Natural History Illustration / Victorian Scientific Realism
Medium & Technique
Lithography with hand-applied watercolor, gum arabic highlights, and iridescent metallic pigments to simulate avian plumage
Creation Period
Circa 1849-1861
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 21 x 14 inches (imperial folio size), vertical portrait orientation in a decorative frame
Subject Description
Three Scintillant hummingbirds (Selasphorus Scintilla) depicted in various aerial and perched positions around a botanical specimen. The composition focuses on anatomical accuracy and the iridescent quality of the birds' feathers, characteristic of Gould's scientific monographs.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; the print shows significant evidence of light exposure, foxing, and paper oxidation
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Likely originally part of a bound volume of 'A Monograph of the Trochilidae, or Family of Humming-birds'; subsequently broken from the set for individual framing. No specific gallery labels are visible through the glazing.
Art Historical Significance
John Gould was the most prolific ornithological artist of the 19th century, often called the 'British Audubon.' This work is from his most celebrated series, reflecting the Victorian obsession with exotic discoveries and the classification of the natural world.
Notable Features
Features the scientific name 'SELASPHORUS SCINTILLA' printed at the bottom center. The use of gold leaf or metallic powders under the watercolor to create 'schiller' (the changing colors of hummingbird throats) is a hallmark of this series.
Condition Issues
Noticeable overall toning/browning of the paper (acidification), scattered foxing spots (brown fungal spots) throughout the background, and significant fading of the original pigments due to UV exposure. There is also evidence of moisture staining on the lower matting.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires de-acidification and cleaning by a paper conservator. Should be reframed using archival museum-grade matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further deterioration and pigment loss.