From Historiae Animalium / Allgemeines Thier-Buch
Conrad Gesner
Zurich, later German edition published 1669
Two woodcuts on a single folio leaf
Later hand coloring
This folio leaf featuring two ornithological woodcuts, depicting a whitethroat and a goldcrest, was issued in 1669 as part of the German Allgemeines Thier-Buch, a vernacular continuation of Conrad Gesner’s groundbreaking Historiae Animalium. Gesner’s original Latin editions, first published in Zurich during the mid-sixteenth century, represent the first modern attempt to systematically describe all known animals and remain foundational texts in the history of science.
Gesner, a physician and professor at the Carolinum in Zurich, approached natural history with an unprecedented scholarly rigor. His work synthesized classical sources, medieval tradition, traveler accounts, and direct observation, while introducing comparative method and bibliographic citation. In ornithology, Gesner was particularly influential, treating birds as distinct species defined by morphology and behavior rather than symbolic meaning.
The present leaf presents two species together, allowing for visual comparison and reinforcing Gesner’s systematic approach. The woodcuts are clear and restrained, focusing on form and proportion rather than ornament. The sheet has been hand colored at a later date, enhancing visual contrast while preserving the integrity of the original cuts. Each colored example is unique, shaped by the hand of the colorist.
Gesner’s bird illustrations mark a decisive shift in European natural history. They document the moment when observation replaced allegory, laying the groundwork for modern ornithology and scientific illustration. Prints such as this are prized for their intellectual importance, age, and quiet visual authority.
Good overall condition. Light, even age toning consistent with the period. Please view images carefully.
Medium: Woodcuts with later hand coloring
Format: Folio leaf
Date: 1669
Dimensions: 13.23 × 7.87 inches (33.6 × 20 cm)
Subjects: Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Ornithology
Status: Available
From Historiae Animalium / Allgemeines Thier-Buch
Conrad Gesner
Zurich, later German edition published 1669
Two woodcuts on a single folio leaf
Later hand coloring
This folio leaf featuring two ornithological woodcuts, depicting a whitethroat and a goldcrest, was issued in 1669 as part of the German Allgemeines Thier-Buch, a vernacular continuation of Conrad Gesner’s groundbreaking Historiae Animalium. Gesner’s original Latin editions, first published in Zurich during the mid-sixteenth century, represent the first modern attempt to systematically describe all known animals and remain foundational texts in the history of science.
Gesner, a physician and professor at the Carolinum in Zurich, approached natural history with an unprecedented scholarly rigor. His work synthesized classical sources, medieval tradition, traveler accounts, and direct observation, while introducing comparative method and bibliographic citation. In ornithology, Gesner was particularly influential, treating birds as distinct species defined by morphology and behavior rather than symbolic meaning.
The present leaf presents two species together, allowing for visual comparison and reinforcing Gesner’s systematic approach. The woodcuts are clear and restrained, focusing on form and proportion rather than ornament. The sheet has been hand colored at a later date, enhancing visual contrast while preserving the integrity of the original cuts. Each colored example is unique, shaped by the hand of the colorist.
Gesner’s bird illustrations mark a decisive shift in European natural history. They document the moment when observation replaced allegory, laying the groundwork for modern ornithology and scientific illustration. Prints such as this are prized for their intellectual importance, age, and quiet visual authority.
Good overall condition. Light, even age toning consistent with the period. Please view images carefully.
Medium: Woodcuts with later hand coloring
Format: Folio leaf
Date: 1669
Dimensions: 13.23 × 7.87 inches (33.6 × 20 cm)
Subjects: Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Ornithology
Status: Available
