11471 Jan Jonston (1603–1675) – Studies of Starlings and Blackbirds – Engraving (1650)
"Merula Rosea mas seu Sturnus marinus. Merula amsel. Merula Brasilica. Merula apud Indica. Sturnus vulgaris. Caryocatactes nussbeiker. Sturnus staer. Sturnus Capite albo. Sturnus pullus. Sturnus Cinereus." This engraving presents ten distinct depictions of various species of birds belonging to the starling and blackbird families. The composition is arranged in three columns, showing the birds in various perched or standing profiles to highlight their unique plumage patterns, beak shapes, and anatomical proportions. The work is characterized by the fine line work and stippling typical of seventeenth-century natural history illustration, meticulously documenting species from both Europe and the Americas. This print was published in Frankfurt am Main as part of the "Theatrum Universale Omnium Animalium," a monumental encyclopedic work on the animal kingdom.
Jan Jonston was a Polish-born physician and naturalist of Scottish descent who became one of the most widely read scientific authors of the seventeenth century. His encyclopedic "Theatrum" series covered quadrupeds, birds, insects, and fish, serving as a standard reference for naturalists across Europe for over a century. The plates for his works were produced in the renowned workshop of Matthäus Merian, known for technical precision and artistic quality. Jonston's contributions were vital in the transition from medieval bestiaries to more empirical biological documentation. His work significantly influenced later naturalists, including Carl Linnaeus, by organizing vast amounts of zoological data into a systematic visual format.
Artist or Maker: Jan Jonston.
Dimensions: Approximately 34 cm x 21 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: 1650.
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.
| Värdering | 300 - 400 SEK |
| Köparprovision (inkl. moms) | 24.4% |
| Slagavgift (inkl. moms) | 6 SEK |
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