Peregrine Falcon (*Falco peregrinus*) & Gyrfalcon (*Falco rusticolus*) Original hand-colored Antique Print by Prêtre (c.1835)

Astori and Sparrowhawks: Precision and Balance in Early Ornithology

This ornithological engraving presents two raptors identified in the plate as Astore della nuova Olanda and Sparviere bruno ticchiolato. The sheet forms part of the ornithological section of the Dizionario di Scienze Naturali, where Pierre Antoine Prêtre depicts birds of prey with scientific discipline and elegant compositional clarity.

The upper bird, rendered in pale silver-grey plumage, contrasts with the richly speckled warm-toned sparrowhawk below, creating a refined vertical dialogue between two species of similar form yet distinct temperament.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The upper hawk is articulated through subtle gradations of grey and ivory, the clean tonal transitions emphasizing feather structure without excess ornament. The yellow talons introduce chromatic tension against the neutral branch.

Below, the sparrowhawk displays layered rust, ochre, and brown spotting across the chest and wing coverts. The careful copperplate linework preserves both scientific legibility and decorative refinement, typical of early nineteenth-century Italian engraving.

About the Subject

The term Astor was historically applied to large hawks within the genus Accipiter. The “Astore della nuova Olanda” refers to a species associated with Australian territories (“New Holland” in early European geography), commonly linked to Accipiter species.

The sparrowhawk, also within the genus Accipiter, represents smaller agile woodland raptors known for rapid flight and precision hunting. Their inclusion in nineteenth-century encyclopedic works reflects expanding global taxonomy and European scientific interest in newly documented territories.

Condition Report

The engraving is in very good antique condition. The impression is sharp and the original hand-colouring remains vibrant. 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 may be present, consistent with its age.

Details

• Artist (drawn by): Pierre Antoine Prêtre (“Prêtre dip.”)
• Scientific direction: Turpin (“Turpin direx.”)
• Engraver: Terenzi (“Terenzi incise”)
• Work / Publication: Dizionario di Scienze Naturali – Sacchetti Collection
• Subjects: Hawk (Accipiter sp., associated) & Sparrowhawk (Accipiter sp., associated)
• 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 insight into Pierre Antoine Prêtre’s role in nineteenth-century zoological illustration, see our editorial feature:

Pierre Antoine Prêtre – Illustrator of Natural Science and Marine Life