A set of five delicate oological plates depicting various studies of bird eggs, finely printed and then enhanced with watercolour. Each composition plays on the nuances of textures, speckles, and chromatic variations characteristic of the specimens represented, with a very soft and naturalistic rendering typical of decorative scientific works from the late 19th century. The aging of the paper, the diffuse foxing, and the patinated tones here reinforce the poetic and almost minimalist aesthetic of these plates, which evoke both natural science cabinets and curiosity interiors. The sheets were later mounted on white cardboard to facilitate their presentation.
✦ Provenance: France ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1890-1910 ✦ Dimensions: approx. 19 x 13 cm each ✦ Material: Printed engravings enhanced with watercolour mounted on cardboard ✦ Condition: good overall condition with foxing, light stains, minor wear and tear consistent with age
An ideal decorative set for a cabinet of curiosities, a naturalist library, or wall decor inspired by old scientific collections.
