Original nineteenth-century hand-colored engraving depicting Coeligena sagittata and the hummingbird identified by Reichenbach as Warszewiczii (later associated with Helianthea iris Gould). A visually striking composition featuring emerald plumage, warm copper tones and two botanical species from Northern Peru.
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Original engravings from the 17th–19th century.
This original nineteenth-century hand-colored engraving depicts two remarkable hummingbirds documented by Ludwig Reichenbach in his celebrated Trochilinarum Enumeratio. The plate combines Coeligena sagittata with a second species listed as Warszewiczii, later associated by ornithologists with Helianthea iris Gould. Together they create one of the most visually dynamic compositions in the series.
The engraving captures the extraordinary diversity of Andean hummingbirds through a refined interplay of colour and form. Emerald-green plumage, warm copper wings and delicate botanical elements produce a composition that is scientifically fascinating while remaining exceptionally decorative.
Among Reichenbach’s hummingbird engravings, this plate stands out for its remarkable balance between movement and symmetry. The upper bird dominates the composition with powerful outstretched wings, while the lower figures create a graceful visual counterpoint. Shades of emerald green, bronze, olive and soft cream interact beautifully against the finely rendered flowers, creating an image of unusual elegance and depth.
The composition has a distinctly architectural quality, with the birds arranged almost as living ornaments around the botanical elements. It is particularly suitable for sophisticated interiors where natural history and decorative art are equally appreciated.
Reichenbach associated this plate with two hummingbirds from Northern Peru. The first is Coeligena sagittata, while the second appears in the original index as Warszewiczii, accompanied by a note indicating a later identification as Helianthea iris Gould. Such nomenclatural revisions are characteristic of nineteenth-century ornithology, a period during which many hummingbird species were still being described and classified.
The engraving also preserves valuable botanical information. Reichenbach associated the birds with Alstroemeria bicolor Lodd. and Alonsoa Warszewiczii Regel, reflecting the close relationship between hummingbirds and the flowering plants of the Andean regions they inhabited.
This engraving belongs to Ludwig Reichenbach’s remarkable world of hummingbirds, where Victorian scientific curiosity meets extraordinary visual elegance. Explore the story behind Trochilinarum Enumeratio and discover why these original hummingbird engravings remain so compelling today.
Very Good condition. Original nineteenth-century paper with strong hand colouring and a clear plate mark. Minor age-related signs may be present, entirely consistent with authenticity and the historical character of the work.
Species: Coeligena sagittata and Warszewiczii (historical nomenclature)
Later identification noted by Reichenbach: Helianthea iris Gould
Work: Trochilinarum Enumeratio
Author: Ludwig Reichenbach
Date: c. 1855–1860
Technique: Original hand-colored engraving
Plate: DCCXC (690)
Reference numbers: 4526 and 4527–28
Inscription: ad naturam (“drawn from life”)
Associated plants: Alonsoa Warszewiczii Regel and Alstroemeria bicolor Lodd.
Origin noted by Reichenbach: Northern Peru
Sheet size: approx. 28.5 × 22.5 cm
Specific References
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