Who painted Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird?

Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird was painted by George Edwards in 1734.

Where can I see Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird?

Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird?

Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird

George Edwards , 1734

Green Bird with Red Throat and Brown and Orange Bird is an ink print by the Baroque artist George Edwards. It dates from 1734 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The composition includes a bare branch, a few twigs, a patch of grass, a fence, and scattered eggs, all executed in the delicate line work of etching.

George Edwards’ hand‑colored etching, dated 1734, presents a modest natural scene on laid paper. Two birds occupy a small hill: an upper bird rendered in vivid green with a striking red throat, and a lower bird in brown and orange tones with a striped chest. The composition includes a bare branch, a few twigs, a patch of grass, a fence, and scattered eggs, all executed in the delicate line work of etching.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a pair of avian figures, likely intended as a study of plumage and behavior. The green bird perches on a twig that sprouts tiny twigs near its head, giving the impression of antlers, while the brown‑orange bird pecks at the ground, head lifted as if listening. The inclusion of eggs and a fence suggests a domestic or garden setting, emphasizing observation of everyday wildlife.

Technique & Style

Edwards employed traditional copper‑plate etching, later enhanced with hand‑applied color on laid paper. The fine lines define feather texture and foliage, while the hand‑coloring adds vivid hues to the birds’ plumage. The restrained background and clear delineation of forms reflect the 18th‑century British natural‑history illustration style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1734, the print is part of Edwards’ early output as a naturalist and illustrator. It survives in several museum collections, though specific ownership records are limited. The work exemplifies Edwards’ contribution to the visual documentation of British birds during the period.