Little Corella (*Licmetis tenuirostris*) – Original lithograph by Green, Mathews (1910–27)

Bare-eyed Cockatoos: Ivory Quiet and Botanical Balance

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Ducorpsius gymnopis, titled on the plate as the Bare-eyed Cockatoo. The sheet belongs to The Birds of Australia, Gregory M. Mathews’ monumental ornithological publication, illustrated here by Roland Green.

Two birds are arranged across a branching structure in a refined diagonal composition. Their pale plumage, carefully modelled rather than left flat, creates an image of restrained elegance—decorative, calm, and highly suited to sophisticated interiors.

— • —

Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

Roland Green builds this plate around subtle tonal contrasts. The cockatoos’ white plumage is shaded in gentle greys that preserve feather structure and volume, while small accents—cool blue-grey around the eye, a faint blush of pink, and a hint of warm yellow beneath the wing—introduce quiet complexity.

The birds are set against warm, textured wood and softened eucalyptus foliage in cool blue-green washes. This interplay of warm and cool tones gives depth without visual noise, creating a composition that feels both scientific and distinctly decorative.

About the Species

Bare-eyed cockatoos are known for the lightly feathered facial skin around the eye, which gives the species its name. Their pale plumage and understated markings make them a study in refinement rather than flamboyance.

In early twentieth-century ornithological illustration, such species provided an important counterpoint to the more vividly colored parrots, demonstrating the breadth of Australian avifauna and the taxonomic ambition of Mathews’ landmark 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: Roland Green (“Green del.”)
• Work: The Birds of Australia
• Species: Bare-eyed Cockatoo (Ducorpsius gymnopis)
• 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