RED LEGGED CHOUGH

Artist: Prideaux John Selby
Price: £200.00
Publisher: Prideaux John Selby
Publication Date: c. 1828. Printed on paper with watermark for 1818
Format: Original hand-coloured etching
Condition: Very good indeed
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 Red Legged Chough 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 creasing. In very good indeed condition overall with bright hand-colouring. Location: Map Drawer A: 002050

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.

Red-Legged Chough: A Short Description

The Red-legged Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax), also known simply as the Chough, is a striking bird recognised for its glossy black plumage, bright red legs, and curved red bill. This species belongs to the family Corvidae and is often associated with rugged coastal cliffs and mountainous regions in Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Here’s a detailed description of the species:

Physical Appearance:

• Size: The Red-legged Chough is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 37–39 cm (14.5–15.5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 65–80 cm (25.5–31.5 inches). It typically weighs between 280 to 350 grams (9.9 to 12.3 ounces).
• Plumage:
  • Overall Colouration: The Chough has a glossy black plumage that can appear iridescent in sunlight, with subtle greenish and purplish hues. This sleek plumage is one of its most distinctive features.
  • Bill and Legs: The bird’s bright red, slightly curved bill is perfectly adapted for probing into crevices and soil for food. The legs and feet are also bright red, contrasting beautifully with its dark feathers.
  • Wings and Tail: The wings are broad and rounded, and the tail is slightly squared, both features that contribute to the bird’s acrobatic flight abilities.

Habitat:

• Breeding Habitat: The Red-legged Chough typically inhabits coastal cliffs, rocky shorelines, and mountainous regions. It prefers open landscapes with short grass for foraging, often nesting in crevices or caves on steep cliffs or in old buildings.
• Wintering Habitat: In winter, Choughs remain in their breeding territories, as they are largely sedentary birds. They may move to lower altitudes or more sheltered areas within their range during harsh weather.

Behaviour:

• Feeding:
  • The Chough’s diet primarily consists of invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and spiders, which it extracts from the soil and under stones using its long bill. It also feeds on seeds, berries, and small vertebrates, especially during winter when insects are scarce.
  • Choughs are often seen foraging in pairs or small groups, using their strong, curved bills to probe and dig in the soil.
• Flight:
  • The flight of the Red-legged Chough is strong and agile, characterised by deep wing-beats and impressive aerial acrobatics. Choughs are known for their playful behaviour, often performing swoops, dives, and rolls in the air.

Breeding:

• Nesting: The Red-legged Chough typically nests in cavities on cliffs or in old buildings. The nest is made of sticks and lined with softer materials such as wool, hair, or grass. Choughs are known to be faithful to their nesting sites, often returning to the same spot year after year.
• Reproduction: The female lays 3 to 5 eggs, which are incubated for about 17–20 days. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after approximately 35–40 days but may remain with their parents for some time after leaving the nest.

Conservation Status:

• The Red-legged Chough is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, although it faces localized threats from habitat loss, changes in agricultural practices, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts in some regions have helped stabilize or even increase certain populations.

Distribution:

• Breeding Range: The Chough is found in isolated populations across Europe, particularly in coastal and mountainous regions such as the British Isles, the Alps, the Pyrenees, and parts of the Mediterranean. It is also present in parts of North Africa and Central Asia.
• Wintering Range: The Red-legged Chough is largely sedentary, remaining in or near its breeding areas throughout the year. However, some birds may move locally to find more favorable feeding conditions during the winter months.

Vocalisation:

• The Chough is known for its distinctive, high-pitched “cheoow” or “kyaah” calls, which are often heard during flight. These calls are sharp and clear, and Choughs often call to each other while engaging in aerial displays. Their vocalisations are a key part of their social interactions, especially within pairs or family groups.

The Red-legged Chough is a charismatic and lively bird, often associated with wild, remote landscapes. Its striking appearance and acrobatic flight make it a favourite among birdwatchers and a symbol of unspoiled nature in the regions it inhabits. Despite its specific habitat requirements, the Chough’s adaptability and social behaviour have allowed it to thrive in some of Europe’s most challenging environments.

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.
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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.