Gregory M. Mathews and The Birds of Australia: A Monument of Ornithological Ambition

Published between 1910 and 1927, Gregory M. Mathews’ The Birds of Australia is one of the most comprehensive and visually striking ornithological works ever produced. In twelve volumes, with hundreds of hand-colored lithographic plates, it represents the culmination of Mathews’ lifelong mission: to catalog every known species and subspecies of Australian bird—many of them endemic—with scientific precision and artistic excellence.

An Australian Vision, Realized in London

Although born in New South Wales, Mathews carried out most of his ornithological work from England, where he collaborated with top lithographers and natural history illustrators. Unlike John Gould, whose similarly titled Birds of Australia preceded him by over half a century, Mathews set out not merely to illustrate birds, but to redefine their taxonomy. His work proposed a vast number of new subspecies, many of which sparked debate—and some of which remain valid today.

Artists Behind the Feathers

The plates in The Birds of Australia were executed by leading illustrators of the early 20th century:

• J.G. Keulemans, whose meticulous style and delicate rendering graced the earliest volumes;

• Henrik Grønvold, known for his scientific accuracy and elegant composition;

• Roland Green, whose dynamic brushwork brought vibrancy and motion to the later illustrations.

Each plate was lithographed in London and then painstakingly colored by hand, often requiring weeks of work per volume.

A Scientific and Artistic Triumph

Mathews’ work wasn’t just a taxonomic exercise. It was a deeply personal, privately financed passion project that reflected the immense biodiversity of Australia’s avian life—from jewel-toned lorikeets to ghostly cockatoos, kingfishers, robins, and raptors. His partnership with talented artists ensured that each species was not only documented but celebrated.

Collecting The Birds of Australia Today

Original prints from this series are highly sought-after by collectors, natural history enthusiasts, and interior decorators alike. Their appeal lies in their fusion of ornithological rigor and aesthetic beauty—ideal for framing or scholarly study.

As we add plates from this extraordinary series to our collection, you’ll find rare illustrations of both familiar and elusive Australian birds—each one a testament to Mathews’ singular vision.

Related Artists:

• J.G. Keulemans

• Henrik Grønvold

• Roland Green