Celebrate Earth Day with the Art of Nature Auction
Earth Day, observed every year on 22 April, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection. Since its launch in 1970, Earth Day has grown into one of the world’s largest civic movements, engaging over a billion people worldwide—from students and scientists to policymakers and conservationists. It is both a call to action and a celebration of our planet’s natural beauty.
A key milestone in the Earth Day timeline was the signing of the Paris Agreement on 22 April 2016, demonstrating international commitment to tackling climate change. On the 50th anniversary in 2020, over 100 million people joined the largest online environmental event in history, reinforcing the urgency of environmental stewardship.
In keeping with this spirit, Chiswick Auctions is proud to announce the inaugural Art of Nature Auction, taking place on 29 April 2025—just one week after Earth Day. This unique auction will feature a curated selection of nature-inspired artworks, celebrating the intersection of art, conservation, and natural history.
Highlight Lots: Gainsborough, Darwin, and David Shepherd
Among the standout lots are:
David Shepherd: Artist, Conservationist, and Champion of Wildlife
David Shepherd CBE (1931–2017) was more than a celebrated British artist—he was one of the most passionate wildlife conservationists of the 20th century. Best known for his vivid, lifelike depictions of African wildlife, Shepherd’s artwork was a powerful tool in his fight to protect endangered species.
Entirely self-taught, Shepherd’s career took him across Africa, where he immersed himself in the study of animals in their natural habitats. His works were exhibited in leading galleries and museums, inspiring generations of artists and environmentalists.
A fierce critic of the ivory trade and a staunch defender of elephants, Shepherd used his fame to advocate for wildlife conservation. His 1962 painting Wise Old Elephant became an instant bestseller and launched a prolific career, particularly in limited edition wildlife prints.
The Elephant in the Room: Shepherd’s Iconic Subject
Elephants held a special place in David Shepherd’s art. Often referred to as “the man who loved giants”, he captured these magnificent creatures in all their strength and vulnerability. One of the auction’s most notable pieces is titled simply Elephant—a striking oil on canvas, measuring 9.3 x 12.5 cm, with an estimate of £3,000–£5,000.
This painting showcases Shepherd’s hallmark composition: a front-facing bull elephant, ears spread wide, painted in warm, earthy tones. His distinctive blend of photographic realism and expressive brushwork conveys both majesty and emotion.
Another featured lot is Lion, an oil on canvas measuring 15.5 x 15.5 cm, signed by the artist and estimated between £3,500–£5,000. The piece echoes Shepherd’s signature style—detailed, emotive, and richly atmospheric. Comparable works have recently been featured at Bonhams’ Modern British and Irish Art sales.
These artworks serve as lasting tributes to Shepherd’s twin legacies: world-class wildlife art and tireless conservation advocacy.
John Gould’s Birds of Great Britain: A Masterpiece of Ornithology
Another centrepiece of the auction is a rare complete set of John Gould’s Birds of Great Britain—a monumental work in both natural history and Victorian art. Presented in 25 parts, this lavish collection is estimated at £25,000–£30,000.
Gould (1804–1881), often hailed as “the greatest bird illustrator after Audubon,” supervised the production of each lithograph, many of which were hand-coloured to exquisite detail by artists such as William Hart. Though Gould himself sketched the original outlines, it was the collaborative process that brought his vision to life.
Described by bibliographers Mullens and Swann as “the most sumptuous and costly of the British bird books”, the collection was Gould’s final and most beloved publication. It represents not just a feat of scientific documentation, but also a masterclass in Victorian-era book production.
Gould’s influence extended beyond illustration. As a close associate of Charles Darwin, he played a critical role in the classification of Galápagos finches collected during the HMS Beagle voyage—evidence that contributed directly to the theory of natural selection.
Collectors, bibliophiles, and ornithology enthusiasts alike will appreciate this historic treasure’s blend of scientific importance and visual elegance.
A Celebration of Art and Nature
The Art of Nature Auction at Chiswick Auctions, on 29 April 2025, is more than a traditional art sale—it’s a celebration of our planet through the lens of artistic genius. From David Shepherd’s wildlife portraits to John Gould’s ornithological wonders, the auction highlights how the natural world has inspired some of Britain’s greatest artistic and scientific minds.
Whether you're an art collector, a conservationist, or simply passionate about nature, this event offers a rare opportunity to acquire meaningful, museum-quality pieces that reflect the beauty and fragility of our environment.