Golden-shouldered Parrot (*Psephotellus chrysopterygus*) – Original lithograph by Henrik Grønvold, Mathews (1910–27)

Golden-Shouldered Parrots: Turquoise Fire and Wild Precision

This original early twentieth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts Psephotellus chrysopterygius, the Golden-shouldered Parrot. The plate forms part of Gregory M. Mathews’ monumental publication The Birds of Australia, illustrated by H. Grönvold and issued by Witherby & Co.

Presented as a vivid pair poised along a pale branch, the composition captures the species’ extraordinary chromatic intensity—turquoise, green, gold, and coral—balanced within a spacious, lightly atmospheric setting that enhances both scientific clarity and decorative presence.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

H. Grönvold constructs the composition around a subtle diagonal dialogue. The upper bird commands attention through its saturated turquoise breast and luminous golden shoulder patch—an accent that reads almost heraldic in its clarity. The darker crown and mantle provide tonal grounding, giving the figure sculptural definition.

Below, the second parrot leans forward in a searching posture, introducing dynamic asymmetry. Its greener dorsal tones temper the palette, while the elongated cobalt tail creates vertical extension and compositional grace. The branch serves as a stabilizing horizontal axis, allowing colour intensity to unfold without visual excess.

The plate achieves a rare equilibrium between brilliance and restraint. Turquoise and gold are vivid yet controlled, articulated through precise feather structure and crisp lithographic line. The result is a work of strong decorative authority while remaining scientifically disciplined.

About the Species

Endemic to northern Queensland, the Golden-shouldered Parrot is today regarded as one of Australia’s most threatened parrots. It inhabits open woodland and grassland ecosystems, where its vivid coloration functions in courtship display and territorial signaling.

Mathews’ inclusion of this species reflects the ambitious scope of his ornithological enterprise. Beyond its visual splendour, the plate preserves an early twentieth-century scientific record of a bird whose rarity adds historical and ecological depth to its aesthetic power.

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: H. Grönvold (“Grönvold del.”)
• Work: The Birds of Australia
• Species: Golden-shouldered Parrot (Psephotellus chrysopterygius)
• Period: circa 1910
• Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
• Paper: Fine original wove paper
• Publisher: Witherby & Co.