Audubon, J(ohn).J(ames). Great American Cock Male--Vulgo (Wild Turkey)

(London, 1827). Hand-colored engraving, by W.H. Lizars, Edinburgh, after a painting by Audubon; on J. Whatman Turkey Mill paper, dated 1827. Approximately 3-inch repaired closed tear in top center edge; other scattered small repaired closed tears along edges; very small holes in top corners; light soiling along margins. 39 x 26 in. (991 x 660 mm). In mat and in frame, 46 3/4 x 34 1/4 in. (1187 x 870 mm). From the family library of Americana and autograph collectors Amor and Zachary T. Hollingsworth. Low, p. 28, variant 1

A handsome example of John James Audubon's Wild Turkey, the first print from his Birds of America (London, 1827-38). "Painting and plate depict one large, beautiful bird in a stand of Giant Cane. Almost all Audubon references suggest this work was painted at Beechwoods, the plantation of Mrs. Robert Percy near St. Francisville, Louisiana, in 1825...It is difficult to find this print in pristine condition. As the first one sent to subscribers, it was proudly shown off to family and friends, so that it was much handled." (Low)