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The Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber)

Mark Catesby

National Gallery of Art

This image depicts a red bird standing in front of a leafless tree, with a coastal background. The bird has a vivid red body and long legs, positioned centrally. The tree has slender, twisted branches reaching upwards. The background features a calm sea, rocky outcrops, and small palm-like trees. In the foreground, there is grass and a starfish. The colors are earthy, emphasizing textures. The composition resembles classical natural history illustrations, focusing on detailed depiction.

Artwork Details

Date
published 1731-1743
Medium
etching and engraving with hand coloring on laid paper
Dimensions
3389 × 4561 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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