The Havell Edition

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Havell Edition", originally brought to life by the talented John James Audubon. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to John James Audubon and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Havell Edition, also known as "The Birds of America," is a monumental work by the renowned naturalist and painter John James Audubon. Published between 1827 and 1838, this series of hand-colored, life-size prints is celebrated for its artistic and scientific significance. Audubon, born in Haiti in 1785 and raised in France, immigrated to the United States where he developed a profound interest in ornithology and natural history. His ambitious project aimed to document and illustrate the avifauna of North America in unprecedented detail and scale.

The Havell Edition derives its name from Robert Havell Jr., the London-based engraver who played a crucial role in the production of the plates. Audubon initially collaborated with Scottish engraver William Home Lizars, but due to technical difficulties, he shifted his partnership to Havell. The meticulous process involved Audubon creating watercolor paintings of birds in their natural habitats, which were then engraved onto copper plates by Havell. These plates were subsequently hand-colored by a team of artists, ensuring each print was a unique work of art.

Comprising 435 plates, The Havell Edition features 1,065 individual birds, representing over 700 species. The prints are notable for their large size, known as double elephant folio, measuring approximately 39 by 26 inches. This grand scale allowed Audubon to depict the birds in life-size, capturing intricate details and dynamic poses that conveyed the essence of each species. The work was published in a series of 87 parts, each containing five plates, and sold by subscription to wealthy patrons and institutions.

The Birds of America is not only a masterpiece of ornithological illustration but also a significant historical document. It reflects the biodiversity of early 19th-century America and Audubon's dedication to the study and conservation of birds. Today, complete sets of The Havell Edition are rare and highly prized by collectors and institutions, with individual plates fetching substantial sums at auction. The work remains a testament to Audubon's artistic genius and his enduring legacy in the fields of art and natural history.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.