(*Corydon sumatranus*) - (*Rupicola peruvianus*) - Corydon and Green Rupicola Original hand-color Antique Print Prêtre (c.1835)

Eurilalmo and Green Rupicola: Tropical Presence in Deep Emerald and Charcoal

This ornithological engraving presents two exotic passerine birds identified in the plate as Eurilalmo coridone and Galletto di rupe o Rupicola verde, accompanied by anatomical beak studies. The sheet belongs to the ornithological section of the Dizionario di Scienze Naturali, where Pierre Antoine Prêtre combines scientific discipline with striking chromatic balance.

The upper bird, darker and more structured, contrasts with the saturated emerald tone of the lower Rupicola. Together they create a refined vertical composition that balances intensity with restraint.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The Eurilalmo is rendered in velvety charcoal tones enriched by subtle brown and copper highlights across the wing. A warm ochre facial marking and pale throat provide visual contrast, while the clean white bars in the tail add graphic rhythm.

Below, the Green Rupicola introduces saturated emerald plumage that dominates the lower register. The compact posture and dense feather articulation give the bird a sculptural solidity. The inclusion of beak diagrams reinforces the encyclopedic nature of the plate, typical of early nineteenth-century comparative zoology.

About the Subject

The Eurilalmo coridone is associated with broadbills of the genus Eurylaimus, tropical birds native to Southeast Asia, admired for their strong bills and contrasting facial markings. Their morphology made them particularly suitable subjects for anatomical study.

The “Rupicola verde” refers to species within the genus Rupicola, commonly known as cock-of-the-rock birds, native to South America. While some species are famous for vivid orange crests, green variants and related tropical forms were equally fascinating to nineteenth-century naturalists. Their saturated plumage and compact form translate beautifully into hand-colored engraving, offering collectors a composition both exotic and visually balanced.

Condition Report

The engraving is in very good antique condition. The impression is clean and well-defined, with preserved original hand-colouring. The paper is smooth early nineteenth-century wove paper (non-laid), consistent with Italian scientific editions of the period. No watermark has been observed. Minor age toning, if present, is consistent with antique paper and does not affect the legibility or decorative quality of the plate.

Details

• Artist (drawn by): Pierre Antoine Prêtre (“Prêtre dip.”)
• Scientific direction: Turpin (“Turpin direx.”)
• Engraver: Corsi (“Corsi inc.”)
• Work / Publication: Dizionario di Scienze Naturali – Sacchetti Collection
• Subjects: Eurilalmo coridone (associated with Eurylaimus sp.) & Rupicola verde (Rupicola sp.)
• Period: early 19th century (c. 1835)
• Technique: Original hand-colored copperplate engraving
• Paper: Original smooth wove paper
• Watermark: None observed
• Sheet size: approximately 22 × 15 cm

For further context on Pierre Antoine Prêtre and his contribution to nineteenth-century zoological illustration, see our editorial feature:

Pierre Antoine Prêtre – Illustrator of Natural Science and Marine Life