Black-Backed Gull

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a Black-Backed Gull depicted in great detail. The bird is shown in a dynamic pose with its wings extended upward, displaying its dark upper feathers. Its head is turned back with its mouth open. Below the bird, hints of a rocky ground surface can be seen, adding texture to the image. A single gull's foot is illustrated separately in the upper right corner. The attention to detail in the bird's plumage and the naturalistic setting reflect an emphasis on ornithological precision. This painting is done in the style of John James Audubon.