Giclee reprint of an original lithograph from John Gould’s The Birds of Europe, published in London between 1832 and 1837.

The Birds of Europe is a legendary five-volume ornithological masterwork published in London between 1832 and 1837. It was conceptualized and produced by the "English Audubon," John Gould (1804–1881), marking his first massive multi-volume regional study.

While John Gould conceived the layouts and sketches, he did not transfer them to the printing stones himself. The artwork for this specific plate was drawn directly onto lithographic stone by the legendary artist and poet Edward Lear when he was only around twenty years old. Lear’s involvement revolutionized the volume's use of perspective and dynamic realism.

The original series was issued in 22 distinct parts over five years to a tiny, elite subscriber list of just over 200 wealthy individuals and European monarchs. Today, complete sets are incredibly valuable rare book treasures. 

The black stork (Ciconia nigra) is a large, solitary wading bird found across the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and Southern Africa. Unlike its highly visible relative, the white stork, the black stork is famously secretive and avoids human contact. Adults appear all-black at a distance, but close up, their plumage shines with a brilliant metallic green, purple, and bronze sheen. They feature a stark white lower breast and belly, paired with bright crimson-red legs, feet, and long, dagger-like bills.