Australian Western Thornbill Acanthiza apicalis John Gould lithograph c1848

by Gould, John

Delightful John Gould lithograph of Australian Thornbills, Acanthiza apicalis antique print. 

Original hand-coloured lithograph by John Gould and Henry Constantine Richter for Gould's Birds of Australia (the finest series ever done on Australian Birds), published in London between 1840 and 1848 by 'The Bird Man', John Gould (1804-1881).

John Gould was a brilliant ornithologist who devoted his life to the study of birds, Gould had a fine eye for detail and knew his limitations as an artist. Also a very successful businessman, Gould employed the finest lithographers of the day and closely monitored their work. while obtaining subscribers to his magnificent works to be able to afford publication. Gould's artist wife Elizabeth Coxen (1804-1841) was trained in lithography by Edward Lear. Elizabeth Gould came to Australia with her husband, remained in Tasmania while her husband travelled around Australia collecting and sketching birds and habitat. Elizabeth Gould , was responsible for over 600 bird lithographs for her husband's grand works. She died at the age of 37, following the birth of their fifth child after their return to England from Australia.

This is a charming original John Gould antique print in fine condition except for foxing spots at top right corner of paper. Size: 535 x 370mm (21 x 14.5 inches).