John James Audubon and Robert Havell, Jr.: Artist's Proofs for The Birds of America

New York, New York: Hirschl & Adler Galleries, 2002. Softcover. VG- (Label on front cover, few marks as ex-gallery owned; mild scuffing to cover and edges; page edges are tanning lightly, and text and plates are clear.). Sage & black & color illus. wraps. 56 pp. 34 color plates. Issued in conjunction with a 2002 exhibition exploring the professional relationship between American naturalist and painter John James Audubon (1785-1851) and the printer/engraver of his four-volume set, "The Birds of America," Robert Havell, Jr. (1793-1878). "Audubon's accomplishment -- a story of triumph over immeasurable obstacles -- has made him one of America's most written-about artists. ... However, little has been written about how the prints were made, nor about the nature of the working relationship between the artist and his partners in the project, the distinguished Havell family of painters and engravers. The discovery, a few years ago, of a group of sixty prints approved by Audubon for use as color guides by his printer has provided the opportunity for research that has led to new revelations, and is the impetus for this exhibition and catalogue." (p. 7) Consists of an illustrated essay by Joseph Goddu. With the exhibition catalogue of 60 pieces and a bibliography. Features the stunning images of some of America's most colorful and interesting birds, as you may expect.