Artwork preview

Black-billed Cuckoo

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of birds interacting with magnolia flowers. Two brown birds are featured amidst lush green foliage and large white magnolia flowers, with one bird perched upside down on a branch and the other extending its wing. There are also brown and green leaves displaying details like veins and small holes. A small insect hovers near the flowers. The flowers themselves are depicted in stages from bud to bloom, showcasing their creamy petals and texture. The painting is in the style of John James Audubon.

Artwork Details

Date
1828
Medium
hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper
Dimensions
4652 × 3376 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original