The Tropic Bird (Phaeton aethereus)

Johann Michael Seligmann after Mark Catesby

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of two birds. One bird is in flight with wings extended upwards, while the other bird is standing on the ground. The large bird has a long tail, white plumage, a red beak, and red legs. The smaller bird has brown feathers. The composition is detailed and illustrative with a plain background. The image features text in various languages that describe the birds. The style is reminiscent of John James Audubon, known for his precise bird illustrations.