Princess Parrot (*Polytelis alexandrae*) – Original lithograph by Green, Mathews (1910–27)

Princess Parrot: A Pastel Jewel of the Australian Interior

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Northiella alexandræ, the Princess Parrot. The plate forms part of The Birds of Australia, Gregory M. Mathews’ landmark ornithological publication, illustrated here by Roland Green.

Rendered in a quiet, airy composition, the bird’s long tapering tail and soft blush-toned head create an image of understated luxury—less about spectacle, more about refinement and line.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

Roland Green approaches the Princess Parrot with tonal restraint and meticulous control. The head is washed in delicate rose and pale coral, subtly modelled to preserve softness without losing definition. Across the body, muted olive greens shift gently into cooler blue-grey tones along the wing, creating depth through gradation rather than contrast.

The elongated tail, edged with refined pink accents, introduces a strong linear axis that stabilizes the composition and gives the bird a sense of elegant motion. The surrounding foliage is intentionally subdued—cool, silvery eucalyptus tones that keep the palette calm and contemporary, making this plate exceptionally suited to sophisticated interior settings.

About the Species

The Princess Parrot is native to Australia’s arid interior, where it inhabits remote scrub and woodland regions. Its rarity and softly coloured plumage made it a particularly prized subject for early ornithological documentation.

In Mathews’ early twentieth-century survey, species such as Northiella alexandræ represent the quieter poetry of Australian avifauna—proof that natural history illustration could capture delicacy and elegance alongside dramatic tropical colour.

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: Princess Parrot (Northiella alexandræ)
• 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