Wien, Gerlach & Schenk, 1896. Two large folio portfolios (57.9 x 44.3 cm) with one page of text, one illustrated title page and 29 stunning chromolithographed plates showing animals in a fabulous Art Nouveau style. Each original quarter linen portfolios has an impressive dragon on front, with the title artistically arranged around it [AND] Two original watercolours by Seder, being the originals examples for plates 21 and 25.

A very rare work with the finest and most stunning plates of Art Nouveau book design. The plates in this portfolio depict dragons, reptiles, shells and other sea life (first portfolio), as well as birds (second portfolio). Included are two original watercolours, drawn and coloured by the artist himself, of plates 21 and 25. These dazzling, extremely well-preserved originals depict eagles, and vultures, respectively, in colours bolder than in the printed edition. It is hard to underestimate the beauty and importance of this work by the famous Art Nouveau painter and art professor Anton Johann Nepomuk Seder (1850-1916). Each plate is a true highlight of artistic design and absolutely breathtaking. Seder's work had many followers in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements and afterwards; genuine individual plates are still highly in demand. Consequently, complete portfolios in good condition, such as this one, are extremely rare. Authentic artwork, as present here, is truly unique. The quality of these chromolithographs is absolutely first class, the frequent use of gold and many different colours gives these plates a great depth which is not even possible with the most advanced printing techniques of today. Somme light browning to the margin of the frontispiece, but overall a fine copy with the plates in the best possible sharpness and colouring. An exceptionally well-preserved ensemble with a unique extra. Schneider-Henn, 200.