François Levaillant Le Montagnard Lesser Kestrel Antique 18th Century Hand Coloured Engraving

An impressive and genuinely early ornithological engraving titled “Le Montagnard”, depicting the Lesser Kestrel, after the work of renowned French explorer and ornithologist François Levaillant (1753–1824).

Dating to the late 18th century, circa 1796–1799, this beautifully detailed colour engraving comes from Levaillant’s important ornithological publications documenting African birdlife.

The previously concealed margins reveal the original plate information and artist/engraver inscriptions, including the names associated with the production of the engraving. These details had been hidden beneath the inner frame and provide particularly useful confirmation of the piece.

The bird is depicted perched upon a rocky outcrop with exceptionally fine feather detail and rich period colouring, with the original French title Le Montagnard beneath.

Approximate size: 29 cm x 23.5 cm

This is an antique piece of considerable age and consequently displays age-related toning, marks, foxing and general surface wear. The engraving has also been laid/adhered onto an old backing board, which is now fragile and deteriorating in places. Please study all photographs carefully as these form an important part of the condition description.

Despite its condition, this remains a striking and highly decorative 18th-century ornithological work, with strong appeal to collectors of antique natural history prints, bird art, ornithology and early French engravings.

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