Boel, Pieter (Antwerp 1622 – Paris 1674). The Falcons. Two of which beating the heron. Meager reeds and landscape scenery, but at the right side two shocked ducks observing the scene. Etching. 16.8 x 24.6 cm.

Bartsch + Wurzbach 2. – Sheet 2 of the “Completely hardly ever occuring (6-sheet) set” (Cat. Davidsohn 677 with the complete copy formerly in the Sträter collection) of prey birds, “Diversi ucelli”, of which Nagler mentions the Rigal copy. In Schwerdt only the first sheet with the title (III, 37) and also here even single leaves are missing in a multitude of catalogues of well-known collections of old masters formed in 19/20th centuries up to that of the immense Weigel stock (parts I-XXVIII, 1838/57) with its well over items. In the latter only the second suite of wild birds Wurzbach 9-14.

Later impression without the number from the no more quite virginal plate on typographically watermarked laid paper three-sided uncut with 1.7-4.3 cm wide margins. In respect of its practical non-occurrence nevertheless not only thematically an opportunity of degrees, but an artistical-intellectual experience, too, as the rare Boel worked nearly without decoration.

He is “one of the most skilfull animal painters … presumably a pupil of Frans Snyders …He also had etched in copper and delivered masterworks in his prints which deserve the admiration of the artists and connoisseurs. They are rare …” (Nagler, 1835!).
Offer no. 14,120 / EUR  373. / export price EUR  354. (c. US$ 458.) + shipping

“ Pursuant to your last kind e-mail, I am placing my personal check in the amount of US$ … in the mail today. When it arrive, please send the print … It has been a pleasure dealing with you ”

(Mr. + Mrs. R. G. S., October 30, 2002)

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