Created as part of John James Audubon's "The Birds of North America," the single greatest work on ornithology ever produced, this fabulous print of "The Little Owl, Strix Acadica" is presented in its original full elephant folio size. Audubon traveled extensively throughout the young United States recording every then known species of bird in 435 plates, each in their true to life scale. From the very rare Havell edition of the books, this print originates from one of the only estimated 175 complete sets produced. The last complete set was sold at auction through Christie's in 2000 for $7.925 million. The frame in which the print is contained is equal to its subject. An incredible period appropriate work of 19th century gessoed and gilt wood, the frame exhibits a profusion of foliage, flowers and fruit. Hibiscus, passion flowers, pomegranates, roses, and violets comprise the broad band of the frame while supporting tiers of acanthus and lambs tongue fall in courses on the inset and supporting outer frame. The print is protected by UV filtering museum glass, and a light olive archival matt brings out the silvery green casts of the print and frame.

H 44.5 in. x W 38.5 in. x D 3.5 in.

H 113.03 cm x W 97.79 cm x D 8.89 cm

Beautiful presentation. The plate bears moderate surface bloom, light discoloration, foxing and several small spots. The frame bears an excellent patina with minor losses commensurate with its age and use..