J. Fenwick Lansdowne "Pied-Billed Grebe" Framed Lithograph

Vintage J. Fenwick Lansdowne "Pied-Billed Grebe" Framed Lithograph (1957 / c. 1961) • Artist: J. Fenwick Lansdowne (Canadian, 1937–2008) • Title: Pied-Billed Grebe • Original Composition Date: 1957 • Estimated Production/Framing Era: Circa 1961–1970 • Medium: High-Quality Lithograph / Fine Art Plate • Framed Dimensions: 13" x 17" (approx. 33 x 43 cm) • Origin: Proudly printed and historically retailed in Canada Description & Artistic Details Up for auction is a beautifully preserved vintage framed wildlife print by the legendary self-taught Canadian ornithological artist, J. Fenwick Lansdowne. This piece depicts a Pied-Billed Grebe sitting over its eggs in a meticulously detailed nest of dry reeds and wetland grass. Lansdowne's mastery is on full display here, capturing soft, lifelike textures on the bird’s plumage, crisp white highlights on the bill, and glistening, delicate water droplets resting on its back. The lower-left corner bears the plate signature "J.F. LANSDOWNE - 1957 -". Collector's Quality & Provenance Notes • Premium Paper Stock: Close inspection reveals a gorgeous, organic, mottled fibrous rag paper texture rather than smooth commercial paper. • Continuous Ink Gradient: The print features completely smooth color washes with no mechanical halftone dot patterns, confirming a high-quality mid-century lithographic process that faithfully captures the original watercolor details. • Historical Provenance: The reverse of the frame retains its highly collectible, original vintage "Coles the book people!" retail sticker with a historic price mark of $2.59, beautifully dating this specific framing package to the late 1960s / early 1970s Canadian market. • Vintage Framing: Housed in its period-authentic, natural grain wood frame with its original hardboard backing and metallic glazing points. Condition Report • Artwork: Excellent vintage condition. The colors remain beautifully deep and uniform. No visible foxing, water damage, or tearing. • Frame & Backing: Structurally sound with light, age-appropriate patina on the wood frame. The original Coles retail sticker is fully intact and legible on the reverse. Nearest intersection Younge Street and Stelees Avenue