Mexican school; XIX century.

Mexican school; XIX century.
"Series of nine birds".
Pens, ink and engraving on paper.
Measurements: 9 x 14 cm (smaller); 12.5 x 17 cm (larger).
Series of nine avian compositions made with plumería, an artistic manifestation of deep historical roots that distinguishes Mexico within the artistic traditions of America. The works represent various species of exotic and fantastic birds elaborated through the careful application of natural feathers on paper supports, complemented with details drawn in ink and printed or engraved elements.
The plumería technique has a pre-Hispanic origin. Among the Mesoamerican peoples, especially the Mexica, the feathers of quetzal, macaw, heron and other birds of colorful plumage were materials of great symbolic and ceremonial value. The amantecas, artisans specialized in feather work, made headdresses, shields, banners and ritual objects for the political and religious elites.
After the Spanish conquest, this tradition did not disappear; on the contrary, it was adapted to the new European artistic models. During the 16th to 18th centuries, Novo-Hispanic workshops developed religious paintings, portraits and devotional scenes made with feathers, fusing indigenous techniques with Western compositions. By the 19th century, featherwork underwent a transformation towards smaller and more commercial formats, destined both for collectors and for the market of national and foreign travelers interested in Mexico's natural and cultural riches.