Artwork preview

Great American Shrike or Butcher Bird

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of four birds perched on branches with red berries. The birds are illustrated with fine details, showing their distinct coloration of grey, white, and black feathers. They are depicted in various poses: one is perched upright, while others are positioned in more dynamic stances, interacting with the branches and berries. The leaves are a lush green with visible veins. The branches curve smoothly, supporting the birds and clusters of red berries.

Artwork Details

Date
1834
Medium
hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper
Dimensions
2571 × 3182 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original