Wildlife Art Value & Price Guide

Drake Mallard Duck Hand Painted on 2 Feathers 14"x23" Barnwood Frame By S. Oneal | eBay
Princess Parrots Print By John Gould Framed - Matted No ...
Bernard Martin Wildlife Art Limited Edition Print Signed ...
Winter Whitetail Print Framed Carved Wood Matted Signed ...
3D picture wall art 'Amercian Bald Eagle', Frame size 10.5”x10.5”x1- 2.5” | eBay
Listed Artist Yra Monte (1918-) Original Oil Painting Gathering of Ducks | eBay

Wildlife art collectibles capture the majesty of the natural world, ranging from 19th-century lithographs to contemporary limited-edition prints. This category celebrates biodiversity through various mediums including oil paintings, duck stamp prints, and intricate antler carvings.

Price Range: $150 - $165 based on recent sales

History of Wildlife Art

The tradition of wildlife art evolved from scientific illustration in the 19th century, led by pioneers like John James Audubon whose 'Birds of America' set the standard for anatomical accuracy and artistic composition. This movement transitioned into a popular collecting hobby in the 20th century as conservation efforts grew and artists began focusing on the emotional and atmospheric qualities of the wilderness. During the 1970s and 1980s, the market for wildlife art exploded with the rise of limited-edition prints and the Federal Duck Stamp program, which turned wildlife portraiture into a cornerstone of American sporting and decorative arts. Today, the field encompasses everything from traditional realism to modern interpretive carvings, reflecting a deep-seated cultural appreciation for the environment.

Value Factors for Wildlife Art

The typical price range for Wildlife Art is $150 - $165 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Artist Reputation: Established names like John James Audubon, Bev Doolittle, and Terry Redlin command premium prices compared to anonymous or local artists.
  • Medium and Rarity: Original oil paintings and low-number lithographs are valued higher than mass-produced offset lithographs or modern digital prints.
  • Subject Matter: Iconic North American species such as bald eagles, deer, and migratory waterfowl typically see higher market demand than less charismatic fauna.
  • Historical Significance: Pieces from the mid-19th century or those associated with specific conservation milestones, like early duck stamps, carry historical premiums.

Tips for Buying Wildlife Art

  • Verify the edition type for prints, as limited editions by artists like Bev Doolittle or Terry Redlin hold significantly more value than open-edition reproductions.
  • Inspect the condition of the paper or canvas for foxing, yellowing, or UV damage, which can drastically reduce the resale value of vintage Audubon or Vernon Ward pieces.
  • Look for artist signatures and certificates of authenticity, especially for high-value mid-century wildlife oil paintings and modern conservation prints.

Items in This Collection

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