Audubon squirrel print – Sciurus Cinereus 1843 Natural History Wall Art

This **Audubon squirrel print** reproduces the scientific precision and artistic rigor of the mid-19th century, specifically Plate XVII from the monumental Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. Originally documented in 1843, this lithograph showcases the Sciurus cinereus, historically referred to as the Cat Squirrel. The composition features three distinct color morphs of the species, arranged dynamically across a weathered tree limb to exhibit the varied pelage and anatomical structure of these arboreal mammals.

Scientific Detail in the **Audubon Squirrel Print**

The **Audubon squirrel print** serves as a vital record of North American biodiversity. John James Audubon, alongside his son John Woodhouse Audubon and the naturalist John Bachman, sought to document mammals with the same exhaustive detail previously applied to avian species. In this specific rendering, the artist emphasizes the coarse texture of the fur and the powerful musculature of the limbs. The use of stippling and fine-line lithography allows for a granular view of the varied tones, from deep charcoal blacks to warm ochre browns and salt-and-pepper greys.

Historical Significance of Sciurus Cinereus

The label ‘Sciurus cinereus’ on this **Audubon squirrel print** reflects the taxonomic classifications used during the Victorian era. While modern biology has updated the nomenclature for many of these species, the 1843 designation remains a touchstone for collectors of vintage mammal lithographs. This print captures the behavioral characteristics of the species, showing the squirrels in active climbing postures, highlighting their bushy tails and sharp claws designed for woodland navigation. Collectors of 19th century wildlife illustration value these plates for their combination of field observation and studio refinement.

As a piece of natural history wall decor, this print brings a scholarly atmosphere to a study, library, or traditional living space. The neutral palette of the squirrels against the stark white background ensures that the fine details of the lithographic process remain the focal point. This reproduction is an archival animal print that respects the original scale and color balance intended by the Audubon family.

Visual Composition and Artistic Technique

The visual weight of this composition is balanced through the triangulation of the three subjects. The top squirrel arches its back, its long tail forming a graceful curve that draws the eye downward toward the central and lower figures. The bark of the branch is rendered with high contrast, showing moss growth and lichen patterns that provide a textural counterpoint to the soft appearance of the fur. This level of detail was achieved through the collaborative efforts of the printer, J.T. Bowen of Philadelphia, who was instrumental in bringing Audubon’s sketches to the public.

• Authentic reproduction of the 1843 original lithograph.
• Features three color variations of the Northern Fox or Cat Squirrel.
• High-resolution scan preserving original paper grain and ink bleed.
• Historical typography including the scientific nomenclature of the period.

Our commitment to quality means this **Audubon squirrel print** is produced using 200 GSM museum-grade matte paper. This heavy stock prevents rippling and provides a flat, non-reflective surface that enhances the visibility of the intricate line work. We employ fade-resistant archival inks to ensure that the subtle transitions from charcoal to amber do not degrade over time, maintaining the integrity of the natural history wall decor for decades.

Display and Decor Integration

Integrating an **Audubon squirrel print** into a modern interior requires an appreciation for the academic aesthetic. It pairs with dark wood furniture, brass accents, and leather-bound books. For those seeking a more contemporary look, the clean white background allows it to stand alone in a minimalist frame, acting as a quiet nod to the natural world. This archival animal print is more than a mere decoration; it is a fragment of biological history preserved through art.

Whether you are a professional naturalist or an enthusiast of vintage mammal lithographs, this print offers a direct connection to the era of Great Frontier exploration. The **Audubon squirrel print** remains one of the most sought-after plates due to the charisma of the subjects and the technical mastery required to render their likeness at “Natural Size.” Order your reproduction of this 19th century wildlife illustration and own a part of the Audubon legacy.

This is fan-inspired artwork and an original artistic interpretation. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially licensed by any studio, production company, label, artist, photographer, or rights holder.