The Red Winged Starling (Oriolus phoeniceus)

Mark Catesby

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a red-winged starling perched on a branch with green leaves and berries. The starling is depicted with its wings slightly open, showcasing its red and yellow shoulder markings against a mostly black plumage. The bird's head is turned downwards, focusing on its footing on the green branch. Beside the bird, there is a branch with elongated, glossy green leaves and clusters of small dark berries. The composition combines detailed illustration with an emphasis on the bird's vivid coloration and the plant’s texture.