Artwork

Oiseaux de guinee tires de bosman

Oiseaux de guinee tires de bosman, by French 18th Century, ink, 1750
Oiseaux de guinee tires de bosman, by French 18th Century, ink, 1750

Oiseaux de guinee tires de bosman is an ink print by the Baroque artist French 18th Century. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The work consists of a sheet of eight black‑and‑white bird illustrations executed as etchings.

About this work

Overview

The work consists of a sheet of eight black‑and‑white bird illustrations executed as etchings. Each image is a simple line drawing, occasionally shaded, and is accompanied by a French label identifying the species, such as “Faisan de Guinée” and “Bel Oiseau.” The compositions are set against an unadorned background, with the birds either perched on a branch, a rock, or standing on one leg.

Subject & Meaning

The series documents avian fauna associated with the region of Guinea in West Africa. By pairing each sketch with its French name, the images function as a visual catalogue, likely intended for naturalists or collectors interested in exotic species. The emphasis on clear, recognizable outlines suggests a focus on identification rather than artistic embellishment.

Technique & Style

Created through the etching process, the artist incised lines into a metal plate, which were then inked and transferred to paper. This method allows for fine detail and consistent replication, while the modest shading and occasional roughness reflect the practical, scientific purpose of the images rather than a pursuit of decorative finish.

History & Provenance

The prints originate from the eighteenth century, a period when European naturalists increasingly sought visual records of African wildlife. Although the specific creator is not named, the French captions indicate production within a Francophone scholarly context, possibly for inclusion in a larger ornithological compilation or as reference material for collectors of the era.

Artist & collection

Portrait of French 18th Century

Artist

French 18th Century

This artist worked in late 18th-century France, making portrait paintings and etched prints.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.