143 Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon (1707–1788) – Set of Two: The Oxpecker and The Troupial – Copperplate Engraving (Circa 1775)
This set of two engravings depicts two species of exotic birds: The Oxpecker (Le Pique-Bœuf) and The Troupial (Le Troupiale). Each plate features a detailed, side-view rendering of the bird perched upon natural elements, set against a classicizing landscape background. These prints are illustrations created for the significant ornithological volumes, Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux, which formed part of Buffon’s vast encyclopedic project, Histoire Naturelle, générale et particulière. The prints provided a visual, descriptive record of global fauna for the Enlightenment-era reader.
Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, was a celebrated French naturalist, mathematician, and cosmologist of the Enlightenment. As the superintendent of the Jardin du Roi (King’s Garden), he oversaw the creation of his monumental work, the Histoire Naturelle, a massive, 44-volume encyclopedia intended to synthesize all known knowledge about the natural world. This comprehensive project, which included volumes dedicated to birds, quadrupeds, and minerals, cemented his status as a key figure in modern natural history and significantly influenced subsequent generations of European naturalists.
Artist or Maker: Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon
Dimensions: Approximately 20 × 14 cm (each image)
Medium: Copperplate Engraving
Date: Circa 1775
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.
| Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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