A collection of original works by the Victorian ornithological artist JW Ludlow has recently been discovered in Devon by Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood Fine Art Auctioneers.
Many poultry and pigeon breeders will be familiar with "The Illustrated Book of Poultry" (1886) and similar publications by the Victorian Poultry expert Lewis Wright, who paved the way for modern breeding standards. However, it is the outstanding detail and quality of Ludlow's illustrations for these publications that are considered classics by many collectors.
Little is known of Ludlow himself and whilst reproductions of his work are readily available on the Internet, original pieces rarely appear at auction. The collection of over 20 original watercolours includes portraits of rare breeds of poultry and pigeons. The exquisite attention to detail has made the books and book plates sought after at auction.
Consigned by a direct descendant of the artist, the collection will be offered in Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood's Specialist Sporting and Collectors Sale in their Honiton saleroom on 16th February 2001, it is a unique opportunity to acquire a rare original work by one of the Victorian era's greatest ornithological artists.
For further details about this sale at Honiton, please contact Brian Goodison-Blanks on (01404) 510000.
- Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood
- Dowell Street, Honiton, Devon
- Salerooms
- JW Ludlow
- Sporting and Collectors Sale
