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Produced by Prideaux John Selby in 1821 as part of his Illustrations of British Ornithology, this plate features the Rook standing in profile on a patch of natural terrain.
The bird’s jet-black plumage is finely engraved, with layers of feathering highlighted to reflect its distinctive sheen. The bird’s pale face contrasts with its sharp black beak, adding to the detailed depiction of its characteristic features.
The background includes subtle foliage and grass, creating a naturalistic setting that enhances the composition. Selby’s plate captures the essence of the Rook’s striking appearance and behavior, balancing scientific detail with an elegant artistic rendering.
The Rook (Corvus frugilegus) is a common bird found across much of Europe and parts of Asia. It inhabits open farmlands, fields, and wooded areas, often forming large communal roosts. Known for its social nature, the Rook frequently forages in groups, feeding on insects, seeds, and crops. It is easily distinguished from other crows by its bare greyish-white face, particularly noticeable in adult birds.
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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