Tricolour Lory & Maipouri Parakeet (Lorius tricolor) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving by Pauquet

Tricolour Lory and Maipouri Parakeet: Dynamic Colour and Movement in Exotic Ornithology

This original 19th-century hand-colored engraving depicts two exotic parrots, identified on the plate as Lori tricolor and the “Perroquet Maïpouri”, drawn and engraved by the Pauquet brothers and published under the direction of Charles Lemaire. The composition represents one of the most dynamic and visually expressive interpretations of exotic bird life within natural history illustration.

Executed within the tradition of “Peintes d’Après Nature”, the birds are rendered with exceptional immediacy — their vivid plumage and contrasting attitudes transforming the scientific subject into a composition of remarkable movement and decorative intensity.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The composition is structured around a strong vertical trunk, with the two birds arranged in a dynamic opposition. The upper lory, depicted with wings fully extended, introduces a powerful sense of movement, while the lower bird provides a grounded counterbalance, creating a visually engaging dialogue.

Colour is the dominant expressive element. The upper bird combines intense red, yellow and green with accents of deep blue, forming a vivid chromatic explosion, while the lower parakeet introduces softer yet contrasting tones of green, cream and yellow. This interplay creates a composition of exceptional richness and visual depth.

The open wings, elongated forms and diagonal tensions generate a sense of energy rarely found in more static ornithological plates. At the same time, the clarity of the engraving and the clean background preserve elegance and compositional balance.

The overall effect is both dramatic and refined — a highly decorative composition that stands out as a statement piece within any interior setting.

About the Species

Lories such as Lorius tricolor were among the most celebrated exotic birds in 19th-century Europe, admired for their intense coloration and lively character. Their suitability for hand-colored engraving made them central subjects in richly illustrated natural history works.

In these representations, such birds embody both scientific curiosity and the fascination with tropical biodiversity, offering a powerful combination of zoological interest and decorative brilliance.

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. The original hand-coloring remains exceptionally vivid, with strong engraved detail throughout. Printed on fine period paper. The sheet shows light, even age toning and a few minor marginal spots consistent with age, while the central image remains bright, crisp and visually striking. A particularly dynamic and decorative impression.

Details

• Artist: Pauquet brothers (Hippolyte & Polydore Pauquet)
• Publisher: Charles Lemaire
• Subject: Tricolour Lory & Maipouri Parakeet (Lorius tricolor)
• Period: 19th century
• Technique: Original hand-colored engraving
• Paper: Fine period paper
• Watermark: None observed
• Sheet size: approx. 23 × 13 cm