Hoopoe – Upupa Epops – Original Hand-Coloured Lithograph

Engraver: John Gerrard Keulemans
Publisher: L’Imprimerie Nationale
Price: £95
Publication Date: Not dated but c.1876
Format: Original hand-coloured lithograph
Condition: In very good condition, unframed
Sheet Size: Sheet Size: 32.5cm x 25cm

Condition:

Original hand-coloured lithograph. Minor age-toning to the margins. In very good indeed, clean condition overall. A rare plate from this important work.

Location: Map Drawer B: FS: Folder JGK 001854

Hoopoe: A Brief Description

The Hoopoe (Upupa epops) is a striking and distinctive bird, known for its unique appearance, colourful plumage, and characteristic “crown” of feathers. It is the only extant species in the family Upupidae and is widespread across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, often inhabiting open landscapes, orchards, and grasslands.

Key Features of the Hoopoe:

1. Appearance:

• Size: The Hoopoe is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 25–29 cm (10–11 in) in length, with a wingspan of around 44–48 cm (17–19 in).
• Plumage: It has a distinctive plumage, with:
  • Head and Crest: The most recognisable feature is its erectable crest of feathers on the head, which is usually orange with black tips. The crest can be raised or flattened depending on the bird’s mood or alertness.
  • Body: The body is predominantly a warm pinkish-brown or buff colour.
  • Wings and Tail: The wings and tail are boldly patterned in black and white bars, giving the bird a dramatic, contrasting appearance, especially in flight.

2. Habitat:

• Hoopoes prefer open landscapes such as grasslands, savannas, orchards, and cultivated fields. They are also found in vineyards, pastures, and areas with scattered trees or hedges.
• They nest in tree cavities, old buildings, or sometimes in rock crevices or burrows.

3. Diet:

• The Hoopoe primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, including larvae, beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers. It uses its long, slender, and slightly curved bill to probe the ground, cracks, or dung for food.
• They are also known to feed on small reptiles, seeds, and berries on occasion.

4. Behaviour:

• Foraging: Hoopoes are ground feeders and often seen walking or hopping across the ground while probing the soil with their bills. They search for food in soft soils and grassy areas.
• Crest Raising: The Hoopoe often raises its crest when excited, startled, or during courtship displays, creating a fan-like effect on its head.
• Flight: Their flight is somewhat butterfly-like, with undulating, swooping motions due to their broad, rounded wings. The black-and-white wing pattern is especially visible during flight.
• Calls: The bird’s call is a soft, repeated “hoop-hoop-hoop” sound, which gives the bird its name. The call is used primarily by males during the breeding season.

5. Breeding:

• Nesting: Hoopoes nest in tree holes, cavities in walls, or holes in the ground. They do not typically build a proper nest but will line the cavity with soft materials like feathers, leaves, or moss.
• Eggs: The female usually lays between 4 and 7 eggs, which are incubated for around 15–18 days.
• Defence: One notable behaviour of Hoopoes is their use of a foul-smelling secretion produced by a gland near the base of the tail to deter predators. Both the adults and chicks use this as a defence mechanism.
• Chicks: The chicks fledge after about 25–30 days and are fed by both parents.

6. Distribution:

• The Hoopoe is widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, with populations also present in sub-Saharan Africa. Northern populations are migratory, moving to warmer climates in the winter, while southern populations tend to be resident.

7. Conservation Status:

• The Hoopoe is listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, with stable populations in most of its range. However, local populations can be affected by habitat loss, intensive agriculture, and the use of pesticides that reduce insect availability.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance:

• Cultural Symbolism: In many cultures, the Hoopoe is revered for its striking appearance and is often seen as a symbol of beauty, courage, or even wisdom. It features in various mythologies, including in Ancient Egypt and Persian poetry.
• National Bird: The Hoopoe is the national bird of Israel and appears in various cultural and religious texts, including the Quran and the Bible.

Summary:

The Hoopoe (Upupa epops) is a remarkable bird, easily recognised by its striking crest, bold black-and-white wings, and unique call. Its preference for open habitats, specialised diet of insects, and distinctive behaviours make it a fascinating species to observe. Found across a wide range, from Europe to Africa and Asia, the Hoopoe remains a symbol of beauty and resilience in many cultures.

John Gerrard Keulemans: A Short Biography

John Gerrard Keulemans (1842–1912) was a prolific and influential Dutch bird illustrator whose work remains celebrated for its accuracy and artistic detail. He was born on June 8, 1842, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. From a young age, he showed an interest in natural history, particularly in birds, and this passion guided him toward a career in scientific illustration.

Early Life and Career

Keulemans studied under Hermann Schlegel at the Natural History Museum in Leiden, where he honed his skills as a naturalist and artist. This connection led to one of his early assignments: joining an expedition to West Africa in 1864 to collect specimens. His work during this period helped him establish his reputation as both a naturalist and an illustrator. He documented various species of birds, adding greatly to the knowledge of African avifauna.

Move to London and Prolific Period

In 1869, Keulemans moved to England, where he would spend the rest of his career. London at that time was a hub of scientific research and publishing, making it an ideal base for an artist like Keulemans. He quickly became a leading illustrator for many of the major ornithological works of the 19th century.

Major Works

Keulemans illustrated more than 100 books on natural history, with his most famous contributions to:

• “The Birds of Great Britain” (1862–1873) by John Gould – Keulemans contributed to many of Gould’s other works, but this publication remains one of the most significant.
• “A History of the Birds of New Zealand” (1873, 1888, 1906) by Sir Walter Buller – Keulemans’ illustrations were essential to the understanding of New Zealand’s birdlife.
• “The Ibis” and “Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London” – leading ornithological journals where Keulemans’ works regularly appeared.
• “The Avifauna of Laysan” and “The Birds of the Hawaiian Islands” by R. C. L. Perkins.

Keulemans’ distinctive style involved the meticulous depiction of birds in natural, life-like poses. His plates were highly detailed, showcasing the nuances of feathers and anatomy, and he often portrayed birds in natural habitats to highlight their behaviour and environment.

Style and Techniques

Keulemans mainly worked in lithography, a printmaking process that allowed for mass production of his artwork while maintaining high-quality detail. He was known for his ability to bring a bird’s plumage and colour to life on paper, despite the limitations of the printing techniques of the time. His method involved working with specimens, either from museums or from field collections, to create scientifically accurate and dynamic illustrations.

Personal Life

Keulemans lived in England for much of his life and married in 1871. He fathered 11 children, though only six survived into adulthood. Despite his immense output and contributions to science, Keulemans often struggled financially, a common challenge for many illustrators of his era.

Legacy

John Gerrard Keulemans passed away on March 29, 1912, in Ilford, Essex, England. His legacy is firmly cemented in the world of ornithological illustration. His works continue to be highly regarded for their scientific value and artistic beauty. Many of his original illustrations are held in museums and private collections, and his detailed depictions are still referenced by ornithologists and bird enthusiasts today.

Keulemans’ work represents an important bridge between the art of the natural world and scientific inquiry, providing invaluable insight into bird species from around the world during a period when photography was still in its infancy. His illustrations remain among the finest examples of ornithological art.

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE AT HORNSEYS

At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of artwork is carefully curated to ensure that each item we offer is authentic, collated, and complete.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Each lithograph is researched and verified for authenticity, guaranteeing that you receive a genuine item.
• Expert Curation: We wholly own all our artworks. We trust our taste and have invested heavily in it. We have confidence in all artwork that we offer for sale.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If, however, you wish to make a return, artworks may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for whatever reason. We request that we are notified in advance if you wish to do so. They must be returned to us in the same condition as they were sent for a full refund.

OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND SERVICE

Understanding the value and rarity of these items, we ensure that every aspect of your purchase meets the highest standards of quality and service. This includes:

• Free Expedited, Tracked, and Insured Delivery within the UK: Ensuring that your artwork arrives safely and promptly.
• Fully-Insured Worldwide Delivery: Offering peace of mind for international collectors with reliable and secure shipping options.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION

Visit Hornseys today to explore our fine collection of maps and other artworks. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a special gift, our selection offers something truly unique. Located sine 1976 in Ripon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, we are recognized as a destination gallery for tastefully curated artwork, rare maps, design, and fine books.