Gold-breasted Lorikeet (*Eutelespitta chlorolepidota*) – Original lithograph by Grønvold, Mathews (1910–27)

Scaly-breasted Lorikeets: Rhythmic Colour and Botanical Grace

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Eutelipsitta chlorolepidota, the Scaly-breasted Lorikeet. The plate belongs to The Birds of Australia, Gregory M. Mathews’ ambitious ornithological enterprise, and was illustrated by H. Goodchild.

Two individuals are presented in complementary attitudes: one alert and upright, the other partially extended in motion. The pairing creates a compositional dialogue that enhances both scientific clarity and decorative vitality.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

Goodchild structures the composition through layered chromatic intensity. The upper bird reveals a dramatic flash of crimson and rose across the wing coverts, contrasting against the vibrant emerald body. The distinctive “scaled” breast pattern — fine yellow edging over green plumage — introduces textural rhythm and subtle luminosity.

The diagonal eucalyptus branch anchors the composition, while the muted blue-grey atmospheric background softens the palette and prevents visual saturation. The interplay between the dynamic raised wing and the calm lower figure produces balance between motion and repose — a hallmark of Goodchild’s disciplined yet expressive approach.

About the Species

The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet inhabits eastern Australia, favouring flowering woodland and coastal forests. Like other lorikeets, it feeds primarily on nectar, pollen and soft fruits, its brush-tipped tongue adapted to floral feeding.

In early twentieth-century ornithology, vividly coloured parrots such as Eutelipsitta chlorolepidota represented both taxonomic complexity and visual splendour. Their iridescent plumage made them particularly suited to the collaborative ambition of Mathews’ monumental publication.

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. Fresh original hand-coloring with strong lithographic impression. Printed on fine early twentieth-century wove paper. Minor age toning slightly more visible along the outer margins, consistent with age.

Details

• Author: Gregory M. Mathews
• Illustrator: H. Goodchild (“Goodchild del.”)
• Work: The Birds of Australia
• Species: Scaly-breasted Lorikeet (Eutelipsitta chlorolepidota)
• Period: circa 1910
• Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
• Paper: Fine original wove paper
• Publisher: Witherby & Co.

For further insight into H. Goodchild’s artistic contribution to Australian ornithology: H. Goodchild – Shadows and Structure in Bird Art