Who painted Blue-grey Flycatcher?

Blue-grey Flycatcher was painted by Robert Havell Jr. in 1830.

Where can I see Blue-grey Flycatcher?

Blue-grey Flycatcher is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Blue-grey Flycatcher?

Blue-grey Flycatcher is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Blue-grey Flycatcher

Robert Havell Jr. , 1830

Blue-grey Flycatcher is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Blue-grey Flycatcher is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1830. The work features two small blue-grey birds in a natural setting, meticulously detailed with emphasis on plumage and surrounding foliage.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two Blue-grey Flycatchers perched on separate branches, one with green leaves and the other with tiny green berries. The subjects are rendered in precise detail, with both birds and plants identified, though specific botanical species require external reference.

Technique & Style

Employing the aquatint technique, characteristic of the Havell family's artistic tradition, the print showcases smooth colors and fine textures, particularly in the feathers and leaves. The mostly blank white background accentuates the naturalistic rendering of the subjects.

History & Provenance

Created in 1830 by Robert Havell Jr., a member of a renowned family of engravers and artists from Reading, Berkshire, England, with known influences from Indian art and expertise in aquatint.

Context

Part of a broader tradition of nature-focused art, this piece exemplifies the precision and detail achievable through engraving and aquatint, inviting comparison with other works in the same medium.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of *Blue-grey Flycatcher* are not detailed, the piece contributes to the broader appreciation of detailed, nature-centric engraving and aquatint works from the early 19th century.

Artist & collection

Artist

Robert Havell Jr.

The Havell family of Reading, Berkshire, England, included a number of notable engravers, etchers and painters, as well as writers, publishers, educators, and musicians.