Artwork

Endpaper with Birds

Endpaper with Birds, by German 18th Century, ink, 1780
Endpaper with Birds, by German 18th Century, ink, 1780

Endpaper with Birds is an ink print by the Romanticist artist German 18th Century. It dates from 1780 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

This image is reminiscent of the work of German 18th Century artists, who were known for their intricate designs and use of gold.

The image shows a piece of paper with a repeating pattern of birds in gold. The birds are in various poses, some flying and others standing. The paper is a pale rose color and has a rough, torn edge.

The birds are intricately designed, with detailed feathers and beaks. The gold color gives the image a sense of luxury and elegance. The rough edge of the paper adds a sense of age and wear.

This image is reminiscent of the work of German 18th Century artists, who were known for their intricate designs and use of gold.

Overview

Endpaper with Birds is a print featuring a repeating pattern of birds in gold on a pale rose-colored background.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts birds in various poses, showcasing intricate designs with detailed feathers and beaks, evoking a sense of luxury and elegance.

Technique & Style

Created using the woodcut technique on prepared paper, the gold color and intricate details reflect the artistic traditions of 18th-century German artists known for their ornate designs.

Context

The rough, torn edge of the paper suggests aging and wear, adding a layer of historical depth to the overall appearance.

Artist & collection

Artist

German 18th Century

This artist kept meticulous endpapers—like secret notebooks—filled with tiny gold figures standing in a row.

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