American Ornithological Union Appraisal

John James Audubon 'Carolina Turtle Dove' Plate XVII Havell Edition Print

This item is an antique ornithological print titled 'Carolina Turtle Dove' (Zenaida macroura), specifically identified as Plate XVII from John James Audubon's seminal work, 'The Birds of America.' The print depicts four mourning doves (historically called turtle doves) in various poses—perched on a branch and tending to a nest—amidst a lush arrangement of white flowered Stewartia (Malachodendron). The composition features intricate botanical and avian details characteristic of the 19th-century natural history aesthetic. Notable inscriptions include 'Drawn from Nature and Published by John J. Audubon' on the lower left and 'Engraved, Printed & Coloured by R. Havell' on the lower right, indicating it is likely a 20th-century facsimile or a well-preserved original Havell engraving. The plate number 'Plate XVII' is clearly visible in the top right corner. The artwork is housed in a contemporary gilded wooden frame with a red-toned matting. The condition appears stable, though there are visible reflections on the glass that obscure some center details. There is slight evidence of age-related toning to the paper stock, but the pigments—ranging from earthy ochres and deep blues in the feathers to the soft white of the blossoms—remain vibrant. The craftsmanship reflects high-quality lithographic or intaglio printing techniques, maintaining the fine line work of the original copperplate engravings.