RG-2026-010
Deer with Floppy Ears – A Captured Game Animal of the Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt, 1754 – Copper Engraving after Johann Elias Ridinger
ca. 1754–1780
About the Work
Johann Elias Ridinger from Augsburg is renowned as the master of hunting and animal graphics of the 18th century—his works grace the cabinets of European princely courts and are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. What makes this particular piece exceptional is that it is not merely a generic animal motif, but a precise historical record: the exact date of the princely hunt (August 20, 1754), the name of the Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt, and the zoological rarity of the animal (notable for its hanging ears as a mutation) are meticulously documented in cursive script within the print itself. Plate No. 63 references one of his major series; the signature 'del. fec. et exc.' confirms that Ridinger himself drew, engraved, and published this piece. This exquisite work is not just a testament to Ridinger's artistic mastery, but also a remarkable historical artifact—a true gem for discerning collectors.
Collector Interest
Ridinger engravings are regularly traded on international platforms such as 1stDibs and Artnet, with prices ranging from EUR 200 to EUR 1500. Buyers from Germany, England, the USA, and Japan particularly appreciate the documentary clarity and royal provenance of these works. Hunting and nature engravings from the 18th century are one of the most stable collector categories worldwide; Ridinger is a recognized brand in this niche.
Provenance
From a private collection in Zug: This sheet belongs to the rare Ridinger engravings that not only depict an animal but also capture a historical event. On August 20, 1754, the reigning Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt had a deer with the zoological peculiarity of drooping ears hunted in the vicinity of Darmstadt – and commissioned Ridinger, the most renowned animal engraver of his time, to document it. The result is a sheet that serves as a work of art, a hunting document, and a scientific rarity all at once. Over 270 years old, in pristine condition, with the original inscription fully legible.
Inscriptions
Diesen Hirsch mit Schlappohren haben des Regier: Herrn Landgrafen von Heßen Darmstadt Hochfürstl: Durchl: den 20ten Augl: 1754. in der gegend von Darmstadt geschossen. — Joh. El. Ridinger del. fec. et exc. Aug. Vind. [Tafel-Nr. 63 oben rechts]