Fritz Rudolf Hug Hand Signed Lithograph Birds 1967 Muster Unverkäuflich For Sale

Original 1967 color lithograph by noted Swiss animal artist Fritz Rudolf Hug (1921–1989), depicting two vividly rendered birds amid loosely drawn grasses, foliage, and expressive passages of blue, yellow, pink, orange, and black.
Hug combines detailed observation of the birds with energetic, gestural marks throughout the surrounding landscape, giving the composition a lively and spontaneous quality.
The lithograph is hand-signed and dated “67” in pencil at the lower right.
An especially interesting feature of this example is the rectangular stamp on the reverse reading “Muster unverkäuflich,” German for “sample, not for sale.” Rather than carrying a standard edition number, this example was designated as a sample/reference copy.
The work is printed on Fabriano Roma handmade laid paper, a high-quality Italian 100% cotton paper with natural deckled edges. The distinctive watermark incorporates the traditional Roman she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, together with the ROMA identification. The watermark is photographed and shown in the listing.
About the ArtistFritz Rudolf Hug (1921–1989) was a Swiss painter and graphic artist best known for his animal and wildlife imagery. His work is characterized by expressive draftsmanship, energetic line, and close observation of animals and birds. In addition to paintings, Hug produced numerous lithographs and other graphic works.
ConditionVery good vintage condition overall, with light scattered spotting on the reverse edge and a couple of small corresponding spots visible along the front right margin. Unframed vintage print stored flat for many years and never framed or displayed. The handmade Fabriano Roma sheet retains its natural deckled edges. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
SizeSheet: Approximately 19 × 13 inches
ShippingShips flat with protective packaging.