Selby, Prideaux John

An original etched copper printing plate, from Illustrations of British Ornithology, plate-maker's stamp on verso "Willm. Pontifex Son & Co./ No 46/ Shoe Lane London", together with an uncoloured proof print from the plate, [cf. Fine Bird Books, 107; cf. Nissen IVB 853; cf. Zimmer p.571]

the condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A fine original copper printing plate from "the finest and largest book about British Birds" (Jackson). The plate was used to print plate 31 from Selby's major work. Christine Jackson writes of the prints: "Selby etched his drawings on copper plates and then either took or sent the plates to William Home Lizars in Edinburgh. Either Lizars or one of his workmen took a pull [proof impression] from Selby's plate and worked on any parts necessary to bring the plate to a very fine state of completion. Selby and Sir William Jardine both purchased their copper plates and etching ground from Pontifex of London, and their letters refer to the progress made in drawing and 'biting' or etching their plates. If they made a mistake or accidently over-etched a plate, they relied on Lizars to correct by burnishing to lighten it. The copper plates were superbly executed and the monochrome printed plates have an austere beauty unmatched in other bird books illustrated by line. Every feather is clearly visible, with all the details of the large flight feathers and the softer plumage standing out in immaculate precision. Tone, shade, and texture were all exploited to the fullest extent and demonstrate the best of which copper etching and engraving were capable" (Jackson, Bird Etchings pp.202-204).