The Birds of New Guinea

The Birds of New Guinea prints by John Gould exhibit the stunning ornithology of New Guinea, with spectacular illustrations of Birds of Paradise. Showcasing both exceptional artistic and scientific skill, these hand coloured antique lithographs depict the vast and stunning bird life of New Guinea and the Papuan Islands, including Parrots, Cockatoos, Birds of Paradise, Kingfishers and many more.

The Birds of New Guinea and the Adjacent Papuan Islands, Gould’s last great work, was completed after his death by Richard Bowdler Sharpe. Gould prepared the first twelve of the 25 original parts of the work, while Sharpe, Gould’s protégé and devoted friend, was responsible for the remainder of the monograph.

The Birds of New Guinea was John Gould’s final and one of his most ambitious ornithological projects, completed posthumously between 1875 and 1888. Drawing on decades of specimen collection and correspondence with explorers, missionaries, and naturalists, this monumental work revealed to European audiences the dazzling biodiversity of one of the world’s least explored regions.

The lithographs were executed primarily by Henry Constantine Richter, based on Gould’s detailed sketches and field notes. Each print was produced using traditional stone lithography and then meticulously hand-coloured, resulting in richly detailed and vibrant original impressions. Subjects include legendary species such as the Greater Bird-of-Paradise, King Bird-of-Paradise, Victoria Crowned Pigeon, and Magnificent Riflebird.

Today, original Gould lithographs from The Birds of New Guinea are prized for their rarity, historical significance, and visual impact. Condition, colour saturation, and full margins are key factors influencing value, making these prints highly sought after by collectors of fine natural history art.

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