This antique book plate was taken from an original History of British Birds by Rev. Francis O. Morris. The striking print is the work of engraver Benjamin Fawcett, and is hand tinted. As an antique it has some light discolouration in parts, and would look fantastic framed.
Page Size: 17cm x 25cm (approximately)
Rev. Francis O. Morris (1810-1893) was a prolific writer, with A History of British Birds being considered his magnum opus. Originally issued in monthly parts over a period of seven years, this work was published by Groombridge and Sons of London and printed by noted engraver Benjamin Fawcett. The initial concept was developed by Fawcett, and he asked Morris to write the text. Fawcett personally engraved the wood-block plates for each illustration. The work was financially successful and extremely popular, being reissued several times and going through multiple editions. It was particularly well received by amateur ornithologists and taxidermists.