Moements with Birds of Australia
by John Gould (1804-1881) Published 1840-1848 in 7 volumes.

John Gould was a noted wildlife artist and ornithologist who began his early life as a taxidermist. His abilities led him to become the curator at the Zoological Society of London. After a collection arrived from the Himalayas he realised the artistic potential of the specimens and thus began his new life as an illustrator. He was helped by his wife, Elizabeth whose artistic talents enhanced many of his works.

His Birds of Europe (1832-37) and Monograph of the Ramphastidae (Toucans) (1834) were so successful that they were able to spend two years in Australia (1838-1840) where they collected specimens that resulted in Gould’s most famous work, The Birds of Australia (1840-48) and Mammals of Australia
(1845-63).

Gould was also deeply interested in hummingbirds. A Monograph of the Trochilidae or Humming Birds was published between 1849 and 1861 in 5 volumes. Gold or silver leaf was used under the watercolour to imitate the natural beauty and iridescence of these birds.

The Gould League, established in Australia in 1909, encourages an interest in natural history and conservation.