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The Small Bittern (Ardea virescens)

Mark Catesby

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a bird perched on a branch. The bird has dark, earthy coloration with greenish tones on its back and a brownish chest. It has a tuft of feathers on its head, a long, pointed beak, yellowish legs and feet. The branch is surrounded by elongated leaves and seed pods. In the background, there is a water body with a small landform and grass. The drawing features detailed feathers and botanical elements, resembling classical ornithological illustrations.

Artwork Details

Date
published 1754
Medium
etching and engraving with hand coloring on laid paper
Dimensions
4583 × 3411 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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