About the Artist
Louis-Isidore Duperrey was a distinguished French naval officer, explorer, and hydrographer whose expeditions contributed significantly to early nineteenth-century scientific discovery. As the leader of the Coquille’s circumnavigation from 1822 to 1825, Duperrey facilitated the collection of diverse natural specimens and observations that would inform influential illustrated works.
Although the visual plates were executed by specialist artists, Duperrey’s vision shaped the scientific and documentary goals of the voyage. His projects are valued by those interested in historic exploration art, where the intersection of travel, science, and visual storytelling is especially rich.
The Artwork
This plate from Duperrey’s Voyage autour du monde reflects the era’s drive to document and classify the natural world during global explorations. Parrots, with their vibrant plumage and exotic origins, were frequently chosen to represent the biodiversity encountered on such journeys and to introduce European audiences to distant ecosystems.
Intended as both scientific reference and visual record, numbered illustrations like this supported the study and comparison of species across continents. The work embodies the spirit of discovery and the desire to bring the wonders of the natural world into the sphere of scholarly and public knowledge, making it a fitting companion to other pieces from the scientific illustration collection.
Style & Characteristics
The artwork features a single parrot in profile, perched on a slender branch against a softly shaded, neutral background. The bird’s feathers are rendered with precise hand-coloring in vivid green, complemented by blue on the wings, yellow on the head, and touches of red on the tail. Fine lines and subtle shading give the composition a sense of clarity and lifelike detail.
Generous spacing and discreet labeling create an uncluttered, specimen-like presentation. The overall mood is calm and attentive, characteristic of vintage bird prints. This piece also pairs well with green-themed decor, adding a natural accent to interiors inspired by the beauty of the natural world.
In Interior Design
This vintage print is especially suited to studies, libraries, or living rooms where a refined yet colorful focal point is desired. The light background and vibrant plumage offer a fresh, classic touch without overwhelming the space.
It complements warm woods, brass, linen, and botanical textures, and can be framed in black for a crisp, museum-like effect. Ideal for collectors of vintage prints, bird enthusiasts, and those curating a travel-inspired interior, it brings a sense of curiosity and exploration to any setting.
