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John Gould Cuckoo-Shrike, Campephaga humeralis. Birds of Australia lithograph c1840-1848

John Gould Cuckoo-Shrike, Campephaga humeralis. Birds of Australia lithograph c1840-1848

by Gould, John

John Gould Australian Cuckoo-Shrike antique print, Campephaga humeralis, White-shouldered Campephaga. 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. He had a fine eye for detail and knew his limitations as an artist, so he employed the finest lithographers of the day and closely monitored their work. John Gould was also an astute businessman, and obtained subscribers to his magnificent works, to subsidize their publication. Gould's artist wife Elizabeth (Coxen) (1804-1841) was taught lithography by Edward Lear. Elizabeth came to Australia with her husband, and with her two children, remained in Tasmania, drawing many of the birds. Elizabeth Gould completed around 600 lithographs for her husband's grand works. She died at the age of 37, following the birth of their eighth child after their return to England from Australia.

In good condition, with beautiful hand-colour, the digital photo does not do it justice. This original hand-coloured lithograph is full size, as published: 535 x 370 mm (21 x 14.5 inches).

Stock Number: apJGa99Price: $540.00

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