Budgerigar (*Melopsittacus undulatus*) – Original lithograph by Roland Green, Mathews (1910–27)

Budgerigars: Grace in Emerald and Gold

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Melopsittacus undulatus, commonly known as the Budgerigar. The plate forms part of Gregory M. Mathews’ monumental publication The Birds of Australia, illustrated by Roland Green and issued by Witherby & Co.

Presented as a poised pair perched among slender grasses, the composition highlights the species’ refined proportions and unmistakable chromatic brilliance. The clean spatial arrangement allows the birds’ luminous plumage to emerge with remarkable clarity.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

Roland Green arranges the two figures in a gentle diagonal rhythm, creating a quiet yet elegant visual dialogue. The upper bird stands alert, its emerald-green breast transitioning seamlessly into a vivid yellow face, while the intricate black scalloping across the back and wings introduces fine graphic structure.

The elongated cobalt tails add vertical extension and compositional balance, countered by the soft, almost atmospheric rendering of the grasses. The restrained botanical background enhances rather than competes, framing the birds in a light, airy environment that reinforces their delicate scale.

The success of this plate lies in chromatic harmony: fresh greens, lemon yellows, and cool blue accents coexist without excess, producing a sheet of remarkable decorative versatility—equally compelling in modern interiors and classic collections.

About the Species

Native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, the Budgerigar is one of the most recognizable parrots in the world. In the wild, its plumage displays vibrant green and yellow tones, designed for camouflage within grasslands and scrub habitats.

Mathews’ inclusion of a paired representation emphasizes subtle variations in posture and expression rather than dramatic dimorphism. Beyond its popularity as a domestic species, Melopsittacus undulatus remains a quintessential symbol of Australia’s avian diversity and adaptability.

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 consistent with age.

Details

• Author: Gregory M. Mathews
• Illustrator: Roland Green (“Green del.”)
• Work: The Birds of Australia
• Species: Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus)
• 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