1853 – Shanghae Fowls presented to Her Majesty

This image, although linked to Tegetmeier’s “The Poultry Book”, as it was published in the 1867 edition, first appeared as a half page illustration in the February 26th, 1853 issue of “The Illustrated London News”. It depicts a grouping of Shanghae Fowls that had been presented to her Majesty Queen Victoria in 1852. Harrison Weir had drawn them in 1853, and was singularly suited to do so, as he was both a poultry expert, and had on previous occasions been granted permission to enter the Royal Poultry House. As early as the mid 1840’s, he inspected some of the first Cochins presented to the Queen,  comparing them to the drawings of an earlier artist for historical accuracy.  Although Tegetmeier was considered to be the person who had the last word on all matters Poultry, it is Weir’s drawings that have stood the test of time, and which also stand as a testament to his knowledge and understanding of the respective breeds. We may be assured then, that this drawing is as accurate as any photograph that could have been taken at the time and is a true representation of how the birds actually looked. In the “details” provided below, detail 2 shows the link to the Royal House, with the Tower of Windsor in the background, the last detail 3, shows the artists signature in plate. This image is taken from the “Illustrated London News” version, and is currently available in A4, A3 and A2 sizing options.