Frigate Pelican

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a frigate bird in flight. The painting shows a large, dark frigate bird with outstretched wings, set against a plain background. The bird is depicted in a dynamic position, giving a sense of movement as if it is gliding through the air. Its elongated wings and forked tail are detailed with precise, layered feathers that range from a deep-black to hints of iridescent hues. The bird's beak is pointed and open, and its eye is visible. Above the bird, two small depictions of feet are visible.