Striking Triptych of 19th-Century Hand-Coloured Zoological Lithographs
£750.00
Description
A truly exceptional and scarce set of three companion hand-coloured lithographs from a significant 19th-century zoological atlas. These works capture the powerful scientific and artistic interest in the exotic natural world during the mid-Victorian era, forming an unusual and highly decorative triptych.
Mainland UK Delivery Included
International Shipping
Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
Full details will be confirmed during the ordering process.
A Rare and Striking Triptych of 19th-Century Hand-Coloured Zoological Lithographs: Exotic Primates
By K. Adam (Delineator) and Beaupré (Lithographer) Published by Th. Lejeune, Editeur, à Bruxelles, circa 1840-1860
A truly exceptional and scarce set of three companion hand-coloured lithographs from a significant 19th-century zoological atlas. These works capture the powerful scientific and artistic interest in the exotic natural world during the mid-Victorian era, forming an unusual and highly decorative triptych.
Each print is a masterclass of mid-19th century lithography, combining the technical precision of scientific illustration with the sensitive, hand-applied watercolour that brings the subjects to life. The prints bear key in-plate signatures providing unequivocal provenance:
- Delineator: The drawing is credited to K. Adam (del.).
- Lithographer: The printmaking is credited to Beaupré (sc.).
- Publisher: The work was published by Th. Lejeune, Editeur, Ã Bruxelles, anchoring the set to a reputable Belgian publishing house known for high-quality illustrated scientific works.
The sheet entitled "Le Gibbon" (The Gibbon) is of particular note, demonstrating the distinctive, long-limbed physique of the ape with a delicate white ruff of hair. Its companions, depicting a figure standing with a staff and another in a more dynamic pose, complete the rare trio.
The figures of the primates are rendered with striking anatomical detail and a palpable sense of character, standing against subtly sketched backgrounds. The original period hand-colouring remains vibrant and beautifully preserved, with rich earth tones and delicate shading providing depth to the subjects.
The lithographs are uniformly presented in sympathetic, dark wood frames with a soft, linen-coloured mount and a thin gilded sight edge. This custom framing highlights the art while ensuring the grouping presents as a singular, cohesive decorative statement.
This set represents not merely an antique decoration, but a fascinating and important surviving example of 19th-century European scientific artistry.
Condition Report
Excellent antique condition, consistent with 19th-century print media. The colouration is strong and the paper is clean, with minimal age-toning. Securely framed behind glass.
Measurement
Height:  24 cm  /  9.4 inches
Width   25 cm  /  9.8 inches
Depth:   1 cm  /   0.4 inches
Weight:  0.5 k.g  /  1.1 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
