SERIN FINCH – SERINUS HORTULANUS

Artists: John and Elizabeth Gould
Price: £120.00
Publisher: Printed by Hullmandel
Publication Date: 1832-1837
Format: Original hand-coloured lithograph heightened with gum arabic
Condition: Very good indeed, bright copy with good margins
Sheet Size: 54.9cm x 37.2cm
Series: From ‘The Birds of Europe’

This exquisite original hand-coloured lithograph from John and Elizabeth Gould’s magnificent work, ‘The Birds of Europe,’ produced between 1832 and 1837, showcases the Serin Finch in stunning detail. The artwork exhibits the meticulous detail and vibrant use of colour that define the Goulds’ lithographs, making it a desirable piece for both art collectors and ornithological enthusiasts. Drawn from life, it reflects the Goulds’ commitment to scientific accuracy combined with artistic elegance. Minor age toning and paper-handling. With a very, very, minor amount of the usual textual off-setting. A very good indeed, bright, copy with good margins. Location: Map Drawer B: Folder 1006. 002163

The Story:

John Gould was an English ornithologist and bird artist. He and his wife, Elizabeth Gould, worked closely together to produce some of the most comprehensive and stunning ornithological works of the 19th century. Elizabeth, an accomplished artist, transferred many of John’s sketches into the lithographic prints that were then hand-coloured under her supervision. This piece not only captures the essence of the birds’ characteristics but also stands as a testament to the Goulds’ significant contributions to both art and science.

Condition Details:

• Overall Condition: Shows slight age toning and handling marks.
• Visual Appeal: Bright and vibrant colours, enhanced with gum arabic.
• Margins: Well-preserved with good margins, indicating careful handling over the years.

Key Features:

• Historical Significance: Part of John and Elizabeth Gould’s ‘The Birds of Europe,’ known for its scientific and artistic merit.
• Collector’s Item: Rare especially in such good condition.
• Artistic Detail: Demonstrates high-quality lithographic work and hand-colouring skills synonymous with John and Elizabeth Gould.

Serin Finch: A Short Description

The Serin Finch (Serinus serinus) is a small, vibrant songbird known for its melodious song and bright plumage. This species belongs to the family Fringillidae and is admired for its lively presence in various habitats across Europe and North Africa. Here’s a detailed description of the species:

Physical Appearance:

• Size: The Serin Finch is a small bird, measuring about 11–12 cm (4.3–4.7 inches) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 20–23 cm (7.9–9.1 inches). It typically weighs between 10 to 13 grams (0.35 to 0.46 ounces).
• Plumage:
  • Male: The male Serin Finch is particularly striking with its bright yellow-green plumage, especially noticeable on the face, breast, and rump. The wings and tail are darker, with some streaking on the back and flanks. The contrast between the vibrant yellow and darker tones gives the bird a distinctive appearance.
  • Female: The female is generally duller, with more subdued yellow tones and heavier streaking on the upperparts and flanks. However, she still retains a hint of yellow on the face and breast, though less intense than the male.
  • Bill and Legs: The Serin Finch has a short, conical bill that is pale grey or pinkish, ideal for cracking seeds. Its legs and feet are typically light brown or pinkish, complementing its overall delicate appearance.

Habitat:

• Breeding Habitat: The Serin Finch prefers open woodlands, orchards, gardens, and areas with scattered trees or bushes. It is often found in habitats with a mix of grassy areas and scrubland, where it can forage and nest.
• Wintering Habitat: During the winter, the Serin Finch may move to lower altitudes or more temperate regions, including cultivated lands, parks, and urban areas, where food sources are more abundant.

Behaviour:

• Feeding:
  • The Serin Finch primarily feeds on seeds from a variety of plants, including grasses, weeds, and trees. It is particularly fond of thistle and dandelion seeds.
  • During the breeding season, it also consumes small insects and larvae, which provide essential protein for growing chicks.
  • The bird often feeds in flocks, especially outside the breeding season, and can be seen foraging both on the ground and in trees and bushes.
• Flight:
  • The Serin Finch has a fluttery, undulating flight pattern, often accompanied by its distinctive song. It is agile in flight, frequently moving between perches and foraging areas.

Breeding:

• Nesting: The species builds small, cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grass, and other plant materials. Nests are usually placed in shrubs or trees, often well-hidden among foliage.
• Reproduction: The female lays 3 to 5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12–14 days. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks, which fledge approximately 14–16 days after hatching.

Conservation Status:

• The Serin Finch is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. It is a common and widespread species across its range, though it faces localised threats from habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices.

Distribution:

• Breeding Range: The Serin Finch is native to southern and central Europe, parts of North Africa, and the Mediterranean region. It is often found in regions with mild climates and abundant vegetation.
• Wintering Range: Some populations are migratory, moving to northern Africa and southern Europe during the winter months, while others remain resident year-round in more temperate regions.

Vocalisation:

• The Serin Finch is known for its cheerful and rapid song, consisting of trills and twitters that are often delivered in flight. The song is an important part of its courtship display and territorial behaviour.

The Serin Finch is a delightful and colourful bird, celebrated for its vibrant plumage and lively song. Its presence adds a touch of brightness and melody to gardens, woodlands, and open spaces, making it a favourite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Why Collect This Lithograph?

Owning this lithograph means possessing a piece of ornithological and art history. Its blend of scientific accuracy and aesthetic beauty makes it a worthy addition to any collection of fine art or historical prints.

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 lithographs 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 lithograph 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 lithographs by John and Elizabeth Gould. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art lovers and collectors since 1976.