LITTLE OWL

Artist: Prideaux John Selby
Price: £250.00
Publisher: Prideaux John Selby
Publication Date: c. 1831. Printed on paper with watermark for 1831.
Format: Original hand-coloured etching
Condition: Very minor marks to the plate surface and age toning. In very good indeed condition overall with bright hand-colouring.
Sheet Size: 63.3cm x 52.2cm
Series: From ‘Illustrations Of British Ornithology’

This exquisite original hand-coloured etching from Prideaux John Selby’s magnificent work, ‘Illustrations Of British Ornithology,’ produced between 1821 and 1824, showcases the Little Owl in stunning detail. The artwork exhibits the meticulous detail and vibrant use of colour that define Selby’s work, making it a desirable piece for both art collectors and ornithological enthusiasts. Very minor marks to the plate surface and age toning. In very good indeed condition overall with bright hand-colouring. Location: Map Drawer A: 002054

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.

Little Owl: A Short Description

The Little Owl (Athene noctua) is a small, endearing owl species known for its bold demeanour and distinctive appearance. This species belongs to the family Strigidae and is widespread across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. Here’s a detailed description of the species:

Physical Appearance:

• Size: The Little Owl is a small owl, measuring about 21–23 cm (8.3–9 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 54–58 cm (21–23 inches). It typically weighs between 150 to 220 grams (5.3 to 7.8 ounces), with females generally being slightly larger than males.
• Plumage:
  • Overall Colouration: The Little Owl has a mottled brown and white plumage, providing excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. Its upperparts are brown with white spots, while the underparts are paler with dark streaks.
  • Facial Disc: Unlike some other owl species, the Little Owl’s facial disc is not well-defined, giving it a more expressive appearance. Its bright yellow eyes stand out against the dark feathers surrounding them, creating a piercing and alert look.
  • Beak and Legs: The beak is short and yellowish, well-suited for its diet of small prey. The legs are feathered down to the toes, which are equipped with sharp talons.

Habitat:

• Breeding Habitat: The Little Owl prefers open landscapes with scattered trees, such as farmlands, orchards, and parklands. It is also found in semi-arid regions, and it often makes use of man-made structures like barns, ruins, and stone walls for nesting.
• Wintering Habitat: The Little Owl is generally sedentary, remaining in its territory year-round, although it may move to more sheltered areas during extreme weather.

Behaviour:

• Feeding:
  • The Little Owl is a versatile predator, feeding primarily on insects, small mammals, birds, and amphibians. It hunts mainly at dawn and dusk, using its keen eyesight and hearing to locate prey.
  • It is known for its habit of perching in an open, elevated spot, such as a post or branch, from where it can survey its surroundings before swooping down on its prey.
• Flight:
  • The flight of the Little Owl is swift and direct, characterised by rapid wing-beats. It often flies low to the ground when hunting, making quick, agile movements.

Breeding:

• Nesting: The Little Owl nests in cavities, typically in trees, but also in buildings, cliffs, or even rabbit burrows. It does not build a nest of its own but uses existing hollows or crevices.
• Reproduction: The female lays 3 to 5 eggs, which are incubated for about 28–30 days. The chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge after approximately 30–35 days, although they remain dependent on the parents for several weeks after leaving the nest.

Conservation Status:

• The Little Owl is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. It is relatively common in its range, although it faces threats from habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices that reduce its prey availability.

Distribution:

• Breeding Range: The Little Owl is widespread across much of Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia. It thrives in a variety of environments, from Mediterranean woodlands to temperate farmlands.
• Wintering Range: As a largely resident species, the Little Owl does not typically migrate, although it may move locally to avoid harsh winter conditions.

Vocalisation:

• The Little Owl is known for its wide range of vocalisations, which include a loud, repetitive “kiew” call often heard at dusk. These calls are used for communication between mates and during territorial disputes, and they can vary from soft coos to sharp, barking sounds.

The Little Owl is a charming and resilient species, often seen perched in open view, watching its surroundings with a curious gaze. Its adaptability to various habitats and its bold, sometimes inquisitive nature make it a beloved bird in the regions it inhabits.

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.

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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.