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All About Audubons
The most frequent question I get about Audubon is from the individual who has an Audubon print and is trying to determine if it is an original. To be authentic and in its original condition, the Havell series must measure about 27 x 38 inches, have a plate mark, depict the bird life-size, and have a J. Whatman watermark along the long edge of the sheet. Sometimes this watermark is cut away and the larger size paper is trimmed to the platemark.
In such cases a magnification loupe must be used to determine if the work is an engraving, lithograph or offset color reprint. The Havell engraving will appear without the offset pattern seen on lithographs.
Many thousands of Audubon prints have been reprinted over the years as the work is without copyright. Most of these reproductions are photos of an original, thus they have the plate numbers and Audubon's and Havell's names just as the originals. Of course, if somewhere on the bottom of the print it reads "copyright", "printed by" or "courtesy of" then it is not an original.
Throughout the catalog I have attempted to describe each series. The Havell and Bowen (Royal Octavo) prints are the only original series issued by Audubon during his lifetime. The Bien edition is very important, as it was issued by his sons. The later editions of the Bowen miniature series are all antique prints, and very nice and collectible, but not originals as in the case of the first edition which was completely handcolored.
Another factor to consider is the condition of the print. If the print is trimmed, the colors are faded, the paper contains tears, stains or foxing, then the value of the print falls in relation to these conditions. Since the Havells are 150 years old, such problems are all too common.
The best way to begin collecting is to read about the artist and his works. In Audubon's case, you are lucky as his life took place in an exciting period of America's early history. Many books have been written about Audubon and his own writings in the bird biographies, journals and letters are a relatively undiscovered national treasure. In 1985 a number of special Audubon exhibitions were held around the country, a commemorative postage stamp was issued, and Audubon's life and works were featured in numerous magazines. This observance, the 200th anniversary of his birth, focused attention on Audubon's life and art.
While the scarcity of Audubons limits their availability in the print trade, you will find it entertaining to drop in to print or antique shops in search of Audubons. Prices will vary as condition varies with the particular print a key factor. For instance, everyone wants the Cardinal or Blue Heron, so the price is quite a bit higher than the prints of the Arctic Jaeger or the Fork-tailed Gull. Good Hunting!