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Louisiana Water Thrush

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a bird perched on a leafy stem with a cluster of red berries at the top. The image depicts a detailed and realistic illustration of a bird known as the "Louisiana Water Thrush" showing its intricate plumage in shades of brown, beige, and white. The bird is portrayed mid-song, with its beak open, perched on a slender, curved branch. Below the bird are large, drooping leaves in a deep, almost velvety green, with edges showing signs of browning and curling. At the top of the composition is a conspicuous cluster of bright red berries that contrast against the earthy color palette. The background is a pale, neutral color, emphasizing the natural details and colors of the bird and plant life represented. This is in the style of John James Audubon.

Artwork Details

Date
1827
Medium
hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper
Dimensions
1482 × 2287 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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