Artwork

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teal, by Robert Havell Jr., ink, 1836
Blue-winged Teal, by Robert Havell Jr., ink, 1836

Blue-winged Teal is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1836 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Blue-winged Teal is a print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1836 using hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two blue-winged teal ducks in flight over a serene landscape, showcasing the species' distinctive plumage and markings. The ducks are rendered in sharp detail, while the background features soft, muted tones.

Technique & Style

The work exemplifies the Havell family's expertise in aquatint, a technique that allows for subtle gradations of tone. The use of hand-coloring adds depth and realism to the image, highlighting the intricate details of the ducks' feathers.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Robert Havell Jr.

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.

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