Pair Of Golden Orioles And Nest On A Branch, From Book Of Worlds, 1856

Pair of Golden Orioles and Nest on a Branch, from Book of Worlds, 1856This exquisite hand-colored ornithological print, titled "Der Kirschpirol" (The Golden Oriole), was published in 1856 as part of the German natural history series Book of Worlds. The illustration features two beautifully rendered Eurasian Golden Orioles (Oriolus oriolus) perched near their intricately woven nest, suspended delicately among leafy branches. The male, in vibrant yellow with contrasting black wings, is seen at the lower center, while the more subtly colored female, with greenish tones and streaked underparts, rests above. Their alert posture and the precise depiction of the nest suggest the height of nesting season, likely spring or early summer.Attributed to a tradition of fine 19th-century German naturalist illustration, this print is exemplary of the intersection between scientific observation and artistic refinement. The lithograph not only serves as an accurate zoological study but also as a decorative work of art. The attention to detail in the plumage, foliage, and nest construction highlights the illustrator's commitment to realism, characteristic of the period's best ornithological works.This piece comes from the rare publication Book of Worlds (1856), a lesser-known but richly illustrated work dedicated to the natural diversity of Earth. Its inclusion of birds, plants, and other fauna makes it an invaluable collector’s item for those interested in 19th-century natural history documentation. The text beneath the image includes the German name and the print number 20, with the year 1856 engraved in the lower margin.Condition Report:Good overall condition with only minimal foxing in the margins. Vibrant original hand-coloring remains fresh and detailed. Edges clean with no visible tears. Slight age-toning appropriate for 19th-century paper.Framing Tips:Best framed with a double mat: a pale cream outer mat with a narrow golden yellow inner mat to echo the bird’s plumage. A natural wood or gold-leaf frame will enhance its antique appeal and preserve its historical character. Use UV-protective glass.