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ID #SA1233032
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£750
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C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)
For sale by Artsonline
for sale €878     $953
£750
Artsonline

Artsonline

Sellingantiques Verified Since Dec 2018
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C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

18th century
For Sale by Artsonline
Description

c. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving By François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Brief Description:

This is a beautiful and highly decorative original 18th-century hand-coloured ornithological engraving by the celebrated French natural-history illustrator and engraver François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800).

Dating from circa 1760, the work depicts the striking “Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar” – the Blue Wood Pigeon of Madagascar – portrayed in profile amongst delicately rendered foliage, flowers and a naturalistic rocky landscape.

The magnificent bird is depicted with wonderfully rich deep blue plumage, contrasting red legs and eye surround, while the surrounding botanical details are picked out in subtle shades of green and yellow.

The image was drawn and engraved by Martinet, with the original printed inscription visible lower left:

“Dessiné et Gravé par Martinet”

and the title beneath:

“Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar.”

The plate is also numbered “II” in the upper-left corner.

François-Nicolas Martinet was one of the most accomplished French ornithological illustrators and engravers of the 18th century and became particularly renowned for his extraordinarily detailed depictions of birds produced during the great Enlightenment-era interest in natural history.

The engraving retains the wonderfully subtle character expected of an early hand-coloured work, with the fine engraved lines remaining clearly visible beneath the applied colour.

It has been professionally presented within a deep cream card mount and attractive giltwood frame, which complements the rich blue and green colouring beautifully.

A particularly charming and highly decorative piece of 18th-century French natural-history art, and an ideal acquisition for a collector of early ornithological engravings, antique prints or natural-history works.

Attributes:

Artist / Engraver: François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Subject: Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar

Medium: Hand-coloured engraving on paper

Nationality: French

Date: Circa 1760

Overall framed dimensions: 38.6 × 33.5 cm

Presentation: Mounted, glazed and framed in giltwood

Condition:

Both the picture and the frame are offered in an overall excellent original condition commensurate with age.

Framed Measurements:

INCHES & CENTIMETRES

Height: 15.2'' | 38.6 cm

Width: 13.2'' | 33.5 cm

Depth: 1.5'' | 3.8 cm

^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^

*A Certificate Of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece*

Delivery

Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services.

Great care and time are taken over the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces we sell.

We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition.

For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days.

Returns Policy

Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy

(excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging).

Pay securely - Telephone orders are welcome.

Image result for payments accepted logos

Secure-Payment-VPADeb-sa-la-go-th-et-an-gt-0045086-BACS-Order-PayPal-M/Card

Physical Dimensions
Height
38.6cm (15.20")
Width
33.5cm (13.19")
Depth
3.8cm (1.50")
Declaration

Artsonline has dated this Antique Martinet Bird Engraving to the 18th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1233032
Dealers Notes

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Description
C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving By François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Brief Description:

This is a beautiful and highly decorative original 18th-century hand-coloured ornithological engraving by the celebrated French natural-history illustrator and engraver François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800).

fig 1. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 1. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Dating from circa 1760, the work depicts the striking “Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar” – the Blue Wood Pigeon of Madagascar – portrayed in profile amongst delicately rendered foliage, flowers and a naturalistic rocky landscape.

fig 2. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 2. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

The magnificent bird is depicted with wonderfully rich deep blue plumage, contrasting red legs and eye surround, while the surrounding botanical details are picked out in subtle shades of green and yellow.

“
The image was drawn and engraved by Martinet, with the original printed inscription visible lower left:.
Artsonline
fig 3. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 3. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

“Dessiné et Gravé par Martinet”

and the title beneath:

“Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar.”

The plate is also numbered “II” in the upper-left corner.

François-Nicolas Martinet was one of the most accomplished French ornithological illustrators and engravers of the 18th century and became particularly renowned for his extraordinarily detailed depictions of birds produced during the great Enlightenment-era interest in natural history.

fig 4. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 4. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

The engraving retains the wonderfully subtle character expected of an early hand-coloured work, with the fine engraved lines remaining clearly visible beneath the applied colour.

It has been professionally presented within a deep cream card mount and attractive giltwood frame, which complements the rich blue and green colouring beautifully.

fig 5. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 5. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

A particularly charming and highly decorative piece of 18th-century French natural-history art, and an ideal acquisition for a collector of early ornithological engravings, antique prints or natural-history works.

fig 6. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 6. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Attributes:

Artist / Engraver: François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Subject: Pigeon ramier bleu de Madagascar

Medium: Hand-coloured engraving on paper

Nationality: French

Date: Circa 1760

Overall framed dimensions: 38.6 × 33.5 cm

fig 7. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 7. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Presentation: Mounted, glazed and framed in giltwood

Condition:

Both the picture and the frame are offered in an overall excellent original condition commensurate with age.

Framed Measurements:

INCHES & CENTIMETRES

fig 8. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 8. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Height: 15.2'' | 38.6 cm

Width: 13.2'' | 33.5 cm

Depth: 1.5'' | 3.8 cm

^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^

A Certificate Of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece*

Delivery

Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services.

fig 9. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 9. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Great care and time are taken over the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces we sell.

We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition.

fig 10. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 10. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days.

fig 11. A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
fig 11. C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Returns Policy

Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy

(excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging).

Pay securely - Telephone orders are welcome.

Image result for payments accepted logos

Secure-Payment-VPADeb-sa-la-go-th-et-an-gt-0045086-BACS-Order-PayPal-M/Card

Height
38.6cm (15.20")
Width
33.5cm (13.19")
Depth
3.8cm (1.50")
Date of Manufacture

Artsonline has dated this Antique Martinet Bird Engraving to the 18th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1233032
Artsonline
Artsonline
Sellingantiques verified Since Dec 2018

Specialising in fine art & quality pottery - worldwide delivery - secure payments

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Artsonline Profile Page

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A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
1 / 13
Archive I A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.

C. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving by François-nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)

Archive II A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View II
Archive III A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View III
Archive IV A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View IV
Archive V A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View V
Archive VI A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View VI
Archive VII A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View VII
Archive VIII A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View VIII
Archive IX A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View IX
Archive X A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View X
Archive XI A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View XI
Archive XII A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View XII
Archive XIII A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame. View XIII
Enlarged Archival View
Location
Bristol
Avon
United Kingdom
Verified Since Dec 2018
Items For Sale 351
Items Sold 227
Artsonline
Artsonline
Verified Since Dec 2018
View Dealer Info
Location: Bristol, Avon, United Kingdom
Verified
Dec 2018
For Sale
351
Sold
227
A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
c. 1760 Hand Coloured Pigeon Engraving By François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800)
Ref: SA1233032
A framed 18th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a deep blue pigeon perched on a mound beside a flowering plant, set within a gold gilt frame.
Detail View 1
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Archival Detail
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Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectFramed Print
  • Period18th century
  • StyleGeorgian
  • MaterialPaper, Watercolour, Gilt Wood
  • ColourDeep Blue
  • MotifsOrnithological subject, Hand colouring, Moulded gilt frame, Inscribed plate text
  • SizeH 38.6 cm (15 in) x W 33.5 cm (13 in) x D 3.8 cm (1 in)

This Georgian framed print is an 18th-century hand-coloured ornithological engraving by François-Nicolas Martinet, dating from circa 1760. The artwork depicts a blue wood pigeon of Madagascar perched on a rocky mound beside foliage and yellow flowers, created using paper and watercolour within a moulded gilt frame. Visible details include an inscribed plate text at the bottom, the number roman numeral II in the top left corner, a deep cream card mount, and red legs on the bird. The frame has stepped mouldings and corner mitre joints with a reflective metallic finish. The overall framed piece measures 38.6 cm high, 33.5 cm wide, and 3.8 cm deep. Suitably styled for a gentleman's library or study, the piece hangs on a narrow wall space to add historic interest and colour to an interior. It suits placement alongside antique furniture, period artwork, and traditional home decor.

A hand-coloured ornithological engraving is a natural history illustration produced by incising an image onto a copper plate, printing it onto paper, and subsequently applying watercolours by hand. Popular during the Enlightenment, these prints documented avian species for scientific and decorative purposes.

These prints were produced using heavy rag paper, oil-based printing inks, and organic watercolour pigments applied with fine brushes. Frames from the period typically feature carved wood finished with leaf gilding or lacquer.

Authentic engravings from this era exhibit a distinct plate mark, which is a visible impression around the artwork left by the metal plate under printing pressure. Additionally, hand colouring displays subtle manual variations, and the laid paper often reveals chain lines when held to light.

Antique natural history prints work well displayed individually or arranged in a gallery wall format. Pair them with contemporary furnishings, dark wood cabinetry, or alongside brass accents to highlight their historical character.

Keep framed prints away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and fluctuating temperatures to prevent fading and foxing. Ensure the artwork is mounted using acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to preserve the paper and original hand colouring.
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