Green Rosella (*Platycercus caledonicus*) – Original lithograph by Green, Mathews (1910–27)

Green Parrots: Botanical Elegance and Linear Grace

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Polytelis swainsonii, commonly known as the Green Parrot. The plate forms part of The Birds of Australia, Gregory M. Mathews’ landmark ornithological work, illustrated here by Roland Green.

Two individuals are arranged across intersecting branches, their elongated tails and streamlined bodies introducing refined linear movement within a carefully balanced botanical setting.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

Green constructs the composition around tonal harmony rather than chromatic contrast. The dominant greens are layered in subtle gradations, from soft leaf-green to deeper emerald along the wings and tail. A restrained flash of yellow and warm red around the crown and nape provides the principal accent, carefully controlled to avoid overwhelming the composition.

The surrounding foliage, rendered in cool blue-green tones, enhances spatial depth while echoing the birds’ plumage. The long, tapering tails create elegant diagonals that guide the eye across the sheet, lending the plate both decorative fluidity and structural discipline.

About the Species

Native to southeastern Australia, Polytelis swainsonii inhabits open woodland and riverine forests. It is admired for its elongated silhouette and subtle yet refined coloration.

Within Mathews’ comprehensive ornithological survey, such species provided a study in elegance and proportion, contrasting with the more flamboyant parrots of northern regions while enriching the visual diversity of the series.

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: Roland Green (“Green del.”)
• Work: The Birds of Australia
• Species: Green Parrot (Polytelis swainsonii)
• Period: circa 1910
• Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
• Paper: Fine original wove paper
• Publisher: Witherby & Co.

For further insight into Roland Green’s contribution to ornithological illustration: Roland Green – Dynamic Vision and Field-Born Precision in Bird Art