Lot #2: Robert Bateman SIGNED Lim. Ed. Print – "Northern Reflections – Loon Family" (4544/8631)

See notes below on what lifts this Bateman above most you see. This is a beautifully framed, HAND-SIGNED and numbered limited edition photolithographic print by the world-renowned Canadian wildlife artist Robert Bateman. Titled "Northern Reflections – Loon Family," this iconic piece beautifully captures a pair of common loons gliding across calm, reflective waters against the dramatic backdrop of a pre-Cambrian quartzite cliff in Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario. This specific print includes the original Mill Pond Press documentation slip attached to the backing, detailing the artist's personal inspiration, creative process, and the historical background of the masterpiece. Historical Significance & Collector Notes • Royal Wedding Gift Provenance: The original painting of this image holds a prestigious place in history. It was commissioned and selected to be the official wedding gift from the Government of Canada to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales (Prince Charles) and Lady Diana Spencer upon their marriage. • Hand-Signed & Numbered: This piece features Bateman’s crisp, hand-signed pencil signature in the bottom right margin, alongside the plate signature and date (1981). It is registered as piece number 4544 out of a limited edition of 8,631. • Expertly Framed & Matted: Professionally housed in a striking triple-matted display featuring neutral slate-grey, cream, and dark green accents that perfectly complement the natural mosses, rocks, and water tones of the artwork. The frame is a classic dark wood with elegant antiqued gold/silver trim detailing. This is part of the original 1986 fund-raising print run of 8,631 which completely sold out at the publisher decades ago. No more will ever be printed on this medium. Because loons are Bateman’s most iconic and sought-after subject matter, this specific title holds its value far better than his lesser-known landscapes or bird prints. Most Bateman prints are just beautiful nature scenes, but this one has historical weight. As the original painting was commissioned by the Canadian Government as the official wedding gift to Prince Charles and Lady Diana. Mentioning "The Royal Print" instantly elevates its prestige above ordinary decor. Cheap reproductions have a printed signature embedded in the picture itself (a "plate signature"). This print has that, plus a distinct, hand-signed pencil signature provided by Bateman himself on the lower margin. Specifications • Artist: Robert Bateman (Canadian, b. 1930) • Title: Northern Reflections – Loon Family (Gavia immer) • Medium: Limited Edition Photolithographic Print on Fine Art Paper • Year of Publication: 1986 (Mill Pond Press) • Edition Number: 4544 / 8,631 • Framed Dimensions: 41 ¾" W x 31" H • Condition: Excellent condition. The print itself is crisp, free of visible foxing or fading, and sits perfectly flat behind glass. The premium framing and matting are secure and show minimal vintage wear on the outer edges. Ready to hang. Pickup category timeslot {A}