Robert Bateman Kittiwakes Appraisal

Kittiwakes Gathering by Robert Bateman

The item is a framed art print titled 'Kittiwakes Gathering' by renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman. The print depicts a group of three adult kittiwakes, identifiable by their pristine white heads and bodies, dark grey wings, and bright yellow beaks, perched closely together on a large, intricately detailed nest. Two of the birds have their beaks open, suggesting vocalization, while the third is nestled among them. The nest itself appears to be constructed from various natural materials, with visible textures and loose strands, indicating a rugged, natural setting often associated with these cliff-nesting birds. The background is dark and indistinct, likely representing a rocky cliff face, which helps to further emphasize the birds and their nest in the foreground. The print is housed within a multi-layered framing system; there's a thin dark inner mat directly bordering the image, followed by a wider, light beige or cream-colored outer mat. The entire piece is enclosed in a simple, likely wooden, frame with a light to medium brown finish. The visible reflections on the glass suggest the presence of a protective glazing, which appears to be in good condition with no obvious cracks or significant scratches. The overall condition of the print appears to be excellent, with rich, vibrant colors and no discernible fading, tears, or creases. The framing likewise looks solid and well-maintained, indicating good craftsmanship in its presentation. The signature 'Bateman' is faintly visible on the print itself, adding to its authenticity. This piece showcases Bateman's characteristic realistic and detailed style, which is highly sought after by collectors of wildlife art. Given the artist and general appearance, the print likely dates from the late 20th century.