166 François Martinet (fl. 1760–1800) – Little Parakeet from the Isle of St. Thomas & from Cayenne – Original Hand-Colored Engraving – 1780

This hand-colored engraving features two charming green parakeets labeled as Petite Perruche de l’Isle St Thomas and Petite Perruche de Cayenne. Perched on separate branches, the birds are depicted with vivid green plumage, yellow highlights, and pink beaks, rendered with Martinet’s characteristic precision and elegance. The composition balances scientific study with decorative appeal, reflecting the Enlightenment-era fascination with exotic avifauna and natural history documentation.
François Martinet was a French engraver and illustrator active during the latter half of the 18th century. He is best known for his contributions to Buffon’s “Histoire Naturelle,” for which he produced hundreds of ornithological plates. His engravings are prized for their clarity, accuracy, and delicate hand-coloring, reflecting the Enlightenment’s passion for classification and beauty in nature.
Artist:
François Martinet
Dimensions:
28 x 20 cm
Medium:
Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving
Date:
1780
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
Estimate | 600 - 900 SEK |
Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |

Dahlströms Rare Prints
Harju maakond, Tallinn
Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415
Estland
+46 70 359 75 85
info@dahlstromsfineart.se
© Software Copyright 2025 Skeleton. All rights reserved.