1950s Kingfisher Bird Print - Menaboni's Bird Bookplate - Vintage Grey Green Botanical Art
Some fun facts about the little blue birds... First identified in the mid-1700's, the Belted Kingfisher is one of the few species of birds where the female is brighter in color than the male. When they are spotted together in a group, they are called a crown. They are easily identifiable by their large heads and tufted hairdos, most often exaggerated after they've taken a dive in a pool of water as they hunt for a fish or two.
{HISTORY}
This vintage eastern belted kingfisher bird print bookplate was rescued from a 1950 book of bird prints destined for destruction. Highly detailed and very colorful it is from a painting by Italian transplant turned Southern artist, Athos Menaboni (1895-1990). Athos, along with his wife Sara were passionate about the natural wildlife surrounding their adopted city of Atlanta, GA . In particular they were captivated by the numerous array of colorful and exotic birds that passed through the Southern region of the U.S. Setting out to record their color and fine feather detailing in paints and drawings, Athos captured pairs of birds in their natural settings, while Sara contributed naturalist style writing about their own observations of living among the wildlife in the sub-tropical garden paradise that is Atlanta. Their words and images were compiled in a highly acclaimed book titled Menaboni's Birds in 1950 which was lauded for its exquisite detailing and brightly colored renderings of some of the American South's most beautiful birds. This beautifully rendered kingfisher print, captures their animated appearance and gorgeous coloring.
{SPECIAL FEATURES}
- Includes a complimentary array the following colors: grey, blue, green, mint, beige, silver, rust
- In addition to the handsome couple this bookplate also includes a naturalist's description of kingfisher characteristics on the reverse side
- Ultra crisp and clear lines
{CONDITION}
Clean and clear of spots or foxing this pirint is in great condition. Slight yellowing around the edges produces a lovely natural vignette that draws your eye towards birds.
{SIZE}
Print measures 8.75" inches (width) x 12" inches (length)
{STYLE IDEA}
Similiar to colors found in antique ironstone, slate and industrial materials, this print has the ability to coordinate with many different styles of kitchen aesthetic from woodsy cabin decor to natural farmhouse to urban minimalist.