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Manks Shearwater

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a Manx Shearwater seabird gliding on the ocean. The bird is detailed with dark plumage on its wings and back, contrasting with lighter tones on its underbelly and head. Its sharp beak is slightly open as it faces left, and its orange eye stands out against the surrounding sky and sea. The water is portrayed with undulating lines, showing the bird's webbed foot just below the surface. In the background, there are rocky formations suggesting a coastal environment. The color palette is calm and natural, featuring blues, browns, and greys. This painting is done in the style of John James Audubon.

Artwork Details

Date
1836
Medium
hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper
Dimensions
2821 × 1808 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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