Scittrope and Paradise Riflebird (*Scythrops novaehollandiae*) - (*Ptiloris paradiseus*) Original Antique Print (c.1835)

Centropi and Lettosome: Tropical Intensity in Crimson, Emerald and Sapphire

This striking ornithological engraving presents two exotic male cuckoo-related species identified in the plate as Centropo nero e rosso and Lettosomo vouroudrion. The sheet belongs to the ornithological section of the Dizionario di Scienze Naturali, where Pierre Antoine Prêtre captures tropical brilliance with remarkable chromatic control.

The upper bird is rendered in layered greens with crimson undertones, while the lower species radiates deep sapphire-blue plumage punctuated by a vivid rust-orange wing patch. Together they form a composition of controlled intensity and strong decorative presence.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The Centropi displays subtle feather articulation, where emerald and burgundy tones interlock across the wing in fine copperplate linework. The pale breast and orange orbital ring provide clarity and balance, preventing chromatic saturation from overwhelming the composition.

Below, the Lettosome introduces saturated ultramarine tones that transition into violet shadows. The sharply defined orange wing panel acts as a luminous counterpoint, giving the bird a jewel-like quality. The elongated tail and diagonal perch enhance movement, while generous negative space preserves the refined cabinet aesthetic characteristic of early nineteenth-century zoological engraving.

About the Subject

The Centropi corresponds to species within the genus Centropus, ground-dwelling cuckoos native to Africa and Asia. Known for contrasting plumage and elongated tails, these birds were frequently illustrated in early ornithological works due to their distinctive morphology.

The Lettosome is associated with tropical cuckoo-like birds historically classified within related groups. The intense blue and rust coloration visible in this plate reflects the fascination European naturalists held for the chromatic richness of tropical avifauna. As a nineteenth-century tropical bird engraving, this sheet combines scientific documentation with bold decorative impact.

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: E. Terreni (“E. Terreni inc.”)
• Work / Publication: Dizionario di Scienze Naturali – Sacchetti Collection
• Subjects: Centropi (Centropus sp.) & Lettosome (associated tropical cuckoo species)
• 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