Artwork
American Sparrow Hawk
American Sparrow Hawk is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
American Sparrow Hawk is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print created by Robert Havell Jr. on Whatman wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts three birds perched on a branch with green leaves and small fruits, showcasing varying plumage and beak colors. The detailed representation reflects the artist's focus on accurately capturing the natural world.
Technique & Style
Havell Jr. employed careful lines and aquatint techniques to achieve a lifelike representation of the birds and foliage. This attention to detail was characteristic of nature prints from the 1800s.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr., son of Robert Havell the Elder, was part of a family known for their expertise in aquatint and printmaking. The work was created in 1832, continuing the family's tradition in the field.
Artist & collection
Artist
The Havell family of Reading, Berkshire, England, included a number of notable engravers, etchers and painters, as well as writers, publishers, educators, and musicians.
