Bilder François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800) – View of L'Hirondelle des Cheminées and L'Hirondelle de rivage – Hand-coloured engraving (1780)

Beskrivning

"1. L'Hirondelle des Cheminées. 2. L'Hirondelle de rivage." illustrates two species of swallows perched on a gnarled branch. The lower bird is a Barn Swallow, identified by its blue-black plumage, deeply forked tail, and rufous throat, while the upper bird is a Sand Martin, shown with its brown upperparts and white underparts. This hand-coloured copper engraving was published in Paris between 1770 and 1783 as part of the monumental Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon. The plate is framed by the distinctive yellow border associated with this landmark series of the French Enlightenment.

François-Nicolas Martinet was a highly accomplished French engineer, engraver, and naturalist who achieved great renown for his detailed illustrations of birds. Originally trained as an engineer, he transitioned into the arts and became the primary illustrator for the most significant natural history publications of his era, most notably the works of Buffon. His career was defined by a commitment to capturing the anatomical precision and vivid coloration of avian species from around the world. Martinet's vast body of work remains a vital reference for the history of zoology and is celebrated for its technical mastery and aesthetic refinement.

Artist or Maker:
François-Nicolas Martinet.

Dimensions:
Approximately 28 cm x 18 cm.

Medium:
Hand-coloured engraving.

Date:
1780.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.