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This plate, produced by Prideaux John Selby in 1821 for his Illustrations of British Ornithology, depicts a young male Goshawk perched on a gnarled branch. The bird’s plumage is richly detailed, with a combination of soft grey, white, and blue tones, emphasizing the bird’s youthful appearance. Its talons grip the branch, and the fierce, determined gaze hints at its predatory nature. Selby’s engraving captures both the bird’s raw power and its delicate feather structure, balancing scientific accuracy with an artistic portrayal. The naturalistic setting, including the branch with small clusters of leaves, adds depth and context to the composition.
The Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) is a powerful bird of prey, native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a skilled hunter, known for its speed and agility in pursuit of birds and small mammals. Goshawks are typically found in dense forests and woodland areas, where they can maneuver through trees with ease. The species is widespread, ranging across Europe, Asia, and parts of North America, and has a long history of use in falconry.
Selby’s Illustrations of British Ornithology
Prideaux John Selby’s Illustrations of British Ornithology, published between 1821 and 1834, is one of the most significant works in 19th-century ornithological literature. Selby, an English naturalist and artist, produced a two-volume set that featured life-sized depictions of British birds, a departure from earlier works that used smaller formats. His background as both a scientist and an artist allowed him to render birds with remarkable accuracy and beauty.
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