Overview
This sublime collection of 418 superbly detailed hand-colored lithographs of hummingbirds, created by John Gould, the āBritish Audubon,ā in the mid-1800s, represents all the known species at that time and is the most complete ever produced of hummingbirds. Unlike John James Audubon, whose work focused on the avifauna of a single country, Gouldās folios illustrate species from around the world. His original set of foliosāFamily of Humming-Birdsāreproduced here in its entirety, depicts the magnificent jewel-like birds together with botanicals native to their habitats in the most remote and exotic ecosystems of the Americas.
In her essay for the book, co-author Laura Oppenheimer tells the story of Gouldās colorful life and places his work in the context of a remarkable period when exploration and classification of the worldās natural wonders was at the forefront of scientific discovery and universally celebrated in Victorian popular culture. Joel Oppenheimer details how Gould created the prints and presents an overview of nineteenth-century printmaking and lithography techniques. He also unravels the mystery behind the gold-leaf process that Gould employed to portray the iridescent quality of the hummingbirdsā plumage, resolving a long-standing controversy regarding who should be credited for its invention. This Family of Hummingbirds will delight birdwatchers, fans of natural history art, and hummingbird lovers everywhere.
This book title, The Family of Hummingbirds (The Complete Prints of John Gould), ISBN: 9780847860654, by Joel Oppenheimer, Laura Oppenheimer, Robert McCracken Peck, published by Rizzoli (October 30, 2018) is available in hardcover. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.
Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer The Family of Hummingbirds (The Complete Prints of John Gould) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.
Prefer to work with a human being when you order The Family of Hummingbirds (The Complete Prints of John Gould) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!