F.O. Morris Bird Egg Prints 1892

The popularity of these endearing prints has made them increasingly scarce, so we are delighted to have prints from the third edition published 1892 of Francis Orpen Morris, A Natural History of the Nests & Eggs of British Birds.

The inspiration for this book actually came from the renowned English printer Benjamin Fawcett, who approached Morris to write the text when Morris became Vicar of Nafferton. This remarkable work was entirely printed and bound in the small North Country village of Driffield, Fawcett's residence and shop, and shipped in tea chests to London. It was a resounding success and a cottage industry at its pinnacle of perfection!

The desirability of this work and its survival in such pristine condition is due to the superb skills and techniques of Fawcett, which are now largely lost. He selected, ground, and mixed his inks with the utmost care. Only heavy paper stock of the finest quality was used, often imported from France. This paper has seen little deterioration with almost no foxing and it retains its fine ivory color and sheen. The plates were color printed from separate wood blocks in up to four colors, with additional hand coloring.

Alexander Francis Lydon was one of Fawcett's principal engravers, contributing much in technique and design.

It is interesting to note that while the text is full of references to bird shoots, Morris became an early advocate for conservation and was instrumental in founding the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

(References include Fine Bird Books, p125 & Benjamin Fawcett, p77)

The condition of the plates is excellent, with high quality, heavy paper and almost no foxing as can be seen by the photos. There is some variation in the background colors of the prints, as usual. Each print measures approximately 7 inches by 10 ½ inches. No descriptive text is included. The photos are very accurate, so please review carefully. All our prints are authentic antique prints and guaranteed to be from the date stated. These prints are more than 160 years old and in exceptional condition.

We accept credit cards & PayPal. Florida state residents pay Florida state sales tax. Shipping for this item is $8.95. Items can be combined to save on postage. International shipping starts at $35, but may be more depending on the size of the prints and the country. Buyers are responsible for all customs duties. Our environment is smoke free. We pack professionally using only new materials. All items are beautifully wrapped and suitable for sending directly as gifts. You may return any item within 15 days if not satisfied. To order, you may call us at 1-888-PANTEEK, or send email to panteek@aol.com