Prideaux John Selby: A Short Biography

Prideaux John Selby (1788–1867) was a distinguished British naturalist, ornithologist, and artist known for his significant contributions to the study of British birds. He is most renowned for his detailed and artistic illustrations of birds, which remain influential in the field of ornithology. Here’s a detailed overview of his life and work:

Early Life and Background:

• Birth: Prideaux John Selby was born on July 23, 1788, in Alnwick, Northumberland, England, into a well-to-do family. He was educated at University College, Oxford, where he developed a strong interest in natural history, particularly botany and ornithology.

Career and Contributions:

• Natural History Interests: Selby had a wide range of interests in natural history, but he is best remembered for his work in ornithology. His estate in Northumberland provided him with ample opportunities to study and observe wildlife, particularly birds.
• Illustration and Publication:
  • “Illustrations of British Ornithology” (1821–1834): Selby’s most famous work, Illustrations of British Ornithology, was a monumental two-volume set that featured life-sized, hand-coloured illustrations of British birds. The illustrations were noted for their accuracy, detail, and artistic quality. This work is often compared to John James Audubon’s The Birds of America for its scale and importance.
  • Selby’s illustrations were unique because he often depicted birds in their natural settings, showing not only the birds themselves but also the plants and landscapes of their habitats. This approach helped set a new standard for ornithological illustration.
• Other Works: In addition to his work on birds, Selby also contributed to other natural history publications and was involved in the production of The Naturalist’s Library, edited by William Jardine. He wrote the volumes on pigeons and game birds for this series.

Legacy and Impact:

• Influence on Ornithology: Selby’s work was highly regarded by his contemporaries and has continued to be valued by ornithologists and collectors. His meticulous attention to detail and his artistic talent made his illustrations an invaluable resource for the study of British birds.
• Conservation and Education: Although Selby was primarily known for his illustrations, his work also contributed to the early conservation movement by raising awareness of the diversity and beauty of British wildlife. His illustrations were used in educational contexts and helped to foster a greater appreciation for the natural world.

Personal Life:

• Family and Estate: Selby lived much of his life at Twizell House, his family’s estate in Northumberland. He was deeply involved in the management of his estate, which included extensive woodlands that he used for his studies.
• Death: Prideaux John Selby passed away on March 27, 1867, leaving behind a legacy as one of the foremost British naturalists and bird illustrators of the 19th century.

Collectability and Historical Significance:

• Selby’s Illustrations of British Ornithology remains a highly sought-after work by collectors of natural history books. Original prints from this collection are considered valuable both for their scientific significance and their artistic merit.
• His contributions are often highlighted in the history of ornithology, alongside figures like John James Audubon and Thomas Bewick, illustrating the importance of combining art with science to advance understanding and appreciation of nature.

Prideaux John Selby’s legacy continues to be celebrated by both ornithologists and art historians, reflecting the enduring impact of his work on the study and appreciation of birdlife in Britain.

Why Buy from Us?

At Hornseys, we are committed to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of rare etchings is meticulously curated to ensure that each piece is both a valuable and authentic addition to your collection. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every etching is thoroughly researched and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: We select each piece with an eye for historical significance, condition, and visual appeal.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions to secure and prompt delivery.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, any item may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:

Visit Hornseys to explore our exceptional collection of original hand-coloured etchings by Prideaux John Selby. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art lovers and collectors since 1976.