Natural History of Parrots (1801-1805) by François Boucher. Giclee Print with Pigment Based Ink on Museum Quality Matte Paper in a Custom Built Sustainable Wood Frame.
Cultural and Geographic Context: European Enlightenment and exploration
Thematic or Conceptual Context: Documentation of natural history and species
Artist's Intent and Context: To catalog and illustrate the diversity of parrot species for scientific study
Formal elements and Composition: Detailed and accurate depictions with emphasis on realism and anatomical precision. François Levaillant's "Natural History of Parrots" (1801-1805) stands as a seminal work in the annals of ornithological illustration, a testament to the intersection of art and science in the Enlightenment era. Levaillant, a French explorer and naturalist, was born in Paramaribo, Suriname, in 1753 and moved to France in his youth. His life was marked by a fervent passion for the natural world, which propelled him on numerous expeditions to Africa and beyond, where he meticulously documented the avian species he encountered.
In "Natural History of Parrots," Levaillant employs a style that bridges scientific precision with artistic elegance. His illustrations are characterized by their vivid coloration and intricate detail, capturing the vibrant plumage and distinctive features of each parrot species. This work is not merely a catalog of birds but a celebration of biodiversity, reflecting Levaillant's philosophical approach to nature as an inexhaustible source of wonder and knowledge.
Levaillant sought to convey the beauty and diversity of parrots, emphasizing their ecological significance and the need for their preservation. The genre of this work is natural history illustration, a field that combines scientific inquiry with artistic expression. Techniques such as watercolor and engraving were used to achieve the lifelike representations that make this collection so revered.
The significance of "Natural History of Parrots" lies in its contribution to both ornithology and art, influencing subsequent generations of naturalists and artists. The original illustrations are currently held in various institutions, with some residing in the Bibliothèque nationale de France, serving as a lasting legacy of Levaillant's dedication to the natural world.
Experience this masterpiece as a museum-quality fine art print with vibrant, true-to-life colors, created using advanced 12-color giclée printing technology. Elegantly framed in premium oak or ash wood with unique grain patterns, each print arrives ready to hang, showcasing the artwork on archival-grade, master's edition, museum-quality acid-free paper for a glare-free, clean finish.
Giclée printing delivers exceptional resolution, expansive color spectrum, and uncompromising detail, ensuring high-quality reproductions that closely mirror the original artwork. Preferred by artists, photographers, and galleries, it offers a precise replication of color palettes, capturing every nuance for timeless masterpieces ideal for your home or office.
Crafted with fade-resistant, pigment-based archival inks , these prints guarantee longevity and brilliance for generations. Frames are custom-built by specialist artisans, featuring a 20mm (0.79") thick design with shatterproof plexiglass protection. Available in various sizes, they are eco-friendly, using FSC-certified materials and responsibly sourced wood.
Key Features:
Frame Material: Responsibly sourced oak or ash wood. Paper Finish: Smooth, glare-free matte; 200 gsm (80 lb), 0.26 mm (10.3 mils). Color Vibrancy: High-quality ink technology ensures vivid and accurate colors. Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass. Eco-Friendly: Printed on FSC-certified paper and wood. Ready-to-Hang: Includes a hanging kit for immediate display. Enjoy timeless art with unmatched quality and sustainability.
