Lot 23659: Hayes - Blue and Yellow Maccaw (Macaw)

This originally hand-colored engraving is from William Hayes's Portraits of Rare and Curious Birds, with their Descriptions, from the Menagey of Osterly Park. The work was published in London by W. Bulmer and Co. in 1794. Each engraving is on woven, watermarked paper. The work was "one of the most famous, early coloured illustrations of ornithology." (Wood) William Hayes was a noted bird illustrator. Hayes also utilized the artistry of his family in the text, drawing, etching, stippling, and coloring of his plates. "Hayes was the first author systematically to record a single private collection of live birds; such a project was not attempted again until 1846." (Jackson, Bird Etchings, p.135) The work was commissioned by Robert and Sarah Child, the owners of Osterley at the time.

~ 9" by 11"

Originally Hand-colored Engraving

1794

The work is in very good condition overall. There may be a few minor marks or fox marks to the paper. The plate marks are mostly absent, but this is usual for this particular work. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.

Portraits of Rare and Curious Birds…