146 François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–c. 1804) – The Ostrich (L’Autruche) – Hand-coloured Engraving (Circa 1775)
This vivid ornithological illustration depicts a single Ostrich in profile against a simplified, arid landscape, characteristic of the species' natural environment in Africa. The print originated from the monumental series Planches Enluminées d'Histoire Naturelle (Hand-Coloured Plates of Natural History), an iconic collection of plates commissioned by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, to accompany his nine-volume treatise, Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux. The high-quality hand-coloring and detailed line work reflect the pinnacle of 18th-century French scientific illustration.
François-Nicolas Martinet was a highly accomplished French engineer, draftsman, and natural history illustrator, primarily known for his meticulous and extensive contributions to ornithology. He was the sole artist and engraver responsible for the thousand-plus plates in Buffon’s Planches Enluminées d'Histoire Naturelle, establishing him as the foremost bird illustrator in 18th-century France. Martinet’s works remain critical historical documents of zoological knowledge from the Enlightenment era.
Artist or Maker: François-Nicolas Martinet
Dimensions: Approximately 32 × 23 cm
Medium: Hand-coloured 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 | 300 - 400 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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