Artwork preview

Diphyllodes chrysoptera (Magnificent Bird of Paradise)

John Gould and W. Hart

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of two colorful birds perched on branches with fruit. The artwork depicts a pair of birds, one above the other, with rich plumage. The bird on top has orange and brown wings, while the bird below has a green breast with hints of blue and gold. The branches they sit upon have leaves and small, red fruit. Scroll-like curves are present, possibly representing the birds' tails. The background features a gradient of blue hues, suggesting an open sky. The style is reminiscent of John Gould's ornithological illustrations.

Artwork Details

Medium
hand-colored lithograph
Dimensions
3388 × 4926 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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