Trochilidae–Kolibris from Kunstformen der Natur (1904) by Ernst Haeckel

Trochilidae — Kolibris (1904) by Ernst Haeckel

A symphony of iridescence and geometry. From Haeckel’s seminal Kunstformen der Natur (Art Forms in Nature), this hummingbird plate arranges long-billed jewels in lyrical symmetry—biology meeting design with surgical elegance. It’s the rare image that delights naturalists, designers, and Art-Nouveau lovers in equal measure.

Why it captivates

• Haeckel at his best — nature distilled into pattern, rhythm, and exquisite proportion.

• Iridescent energy — poised hummingbirds, radiating from a calm, ornamental centre.

• Graphic clarity — crisp outlines and disciplined labeling reward close study.

• Decor + discovery — scientific accuracy that doubles as stunning wall art.

• Timeless pedigree — from one of the most influential visual science works of the 20th century.

What you’ll see

A radiant constellation of hummingbirds (Trochilidae): scimitared bills, needle-fine tongues, and filigree tails; hovering poses set in Haeckel’s characteristic radial composition. The plate balances taxonomy and ornament, turning motion into pattern without losing anatomical truth.

A richer historical frame

Published between 1899 and 1904, Kunstformen der Natur unified scientific observation and visual design, shaping everything from museum displays to the Art Nouveau vocabulary. Haeckel’s hummingbirds capture that ideal: precise species studies choreographed into a single, unforgettable motif—nature as architecture.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp linework, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—great for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich colour and fine detail.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

600 × 841 mm (approx. 23.62 × 33.11 in)

• Orientation: Portrait

• Aspect ratio: ~5 : 7

• Nearest standard frame:

  • A1 (594 × 841 mm) — we can supply an A1-friendly 594 × 841 mm version on request, or your framer can mat/trim accordingly.

• Framing tips:

  • Classic: warm off-white mat, slim black or walnut moulding.

  • Contemporary: float-mount to showcase the plate border and create a clean shadow gap.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Designers & stylists seeking Art-Nouveau harmony

• Natural-history lovers and collectors of scientific plates

• Educators & students of biology, pattern, and form

• Gift-givers after a bright, cultured statement

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Let Haeckel’s hummingbirds bring poised energy to your space—order your Trochilidae — Kolibris print today.