Antique Bird Print of the Common Scoter

Antique print titled 'Anas, Nigra'. The common scoter (Melanitta nigra) is a large sea duck, 43–54 cm (17–21 in) in length, which breeds over the far north of Europe and Asia east to the Olenyok River. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek melas, "black", and netta, "duck". The species name is from Latin niger "shining black".

This print originates from 'Nederlandsche Vogelen; volgens hunne huisdouding, aert, en eigenschappen beschreeven", Amsterdam, 1770-1829 by C. Nozeman, M. Houttuyn and J.C. Sepp. This is the most important and first study in the Netherlands of ornithology at that time. The birds are depicted as they are in life, said to be depicted close to life-sized and in their environment.

Condition: Good. General age-related toning. Original text page included. Minor wear and soiling. Please study image carefully.

Date: 1809

Overall size: 37 x 53.5 cm.