Great Auk and Diving Bird (*Pinguinus impennis*) and (*Gavia stellata*) Original hand-colored Antique Print by Prêtre (c.1835)

Penguin and Grand Attenodite: Monumental Silence in Black and White

This refined ornithological engraving presents two polar seabirds identified in the plate as Pinguino comune, o Gazza marina and Grand’Attenodite. The sheet belongs to the ornithological section of the Dizionario di Scienze Naturali, where Pierre Antoine Prêtre transforms remote polar fauna into disciplined, sculptural form.

The upper bird stands compact and composed, while the lower figure—taller and more elongated—introduces vertical monumentality. Together they create a composition defined by restraint, contrast, and clarity.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The composition relies on the dramatic opposition of black dorsal plumage and white ventral fields. The subtle modulation of grey across the wings prevents flatness, while small accents of red and yellow at the beak and throat provide controlled chromatic focus.

The Grand’Attenodite, with its elongated neck and upright stance, carries quiet monumentality. The minimal background and generous white margins reinforce the museum-specimen clarity characteristic of early nineteenth-century natural history engraving, making this plate particularly suitable for contemporary interiors that favor contrast and graphic simplicity.

About the Subject

The “Pinguino comune” is associated with early nineteenth-century representations of penguins belonging to the genus Spheniscus or related groups. Penguins were objects of intense scientific curiosity, as European exploration expanded into southern oceans.

The “Grand’Attenodite” corresponds to large penguin species associated with the genus Aptenodytes, including what is now known as the King Penguin. Their upright posture and bold coloration made them especially compelling subjects for natural history illustration. In this plate, polar fauna is presented not as anecdote but as formal study — disciplined, balanced, and enduring.

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: Chiussone (“Chiussone inc.”)
• Work / Publication: Dizionario di Scienze Naturali – Sacchetti Collection
• Subjects: Penguin (associated with Spheniscus sp.) & Grand Attenodite (associated with Aptenodytes 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