London, the author, ca. 1835. Folio (37.5 x 27.6 cm). Well preserved hand-painted engraving of a bird in its natural surroundings.

Dutch-born British ornithologist Henri Leonhard Meyer (1797-1865), author and illustrator of one of the best books on British Birds: Illustrations of British Birds (London, Longman, 1835-1850), painted this beautiful bird in the 1830's, and added notes on its food, nest, and eggs. The barn owl is a farmer's friend, preying on mice and rats. Unfortunately, "because these owls don't "hoot", instead emitting raspy screeches and hissing noises, and their white face and underbelly feathers, visible as they fly overhead, make them look 'ghostly', they were often killed by farmers who were unaware of the benefits these birds bring. Negative perceptions can also be attributed to the false belief that they could eat large animals, such as chickens and cats" (Wikipedia). Some light and occasional spotting. No dents or tears present. A very good copy.