Artwork
Common American Swan
Common American Swan is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Common American Swan is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1838.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a white swan standing in water, surrounded by yellow water lilies and a serene landscape with trees and a blue sky. The swan's elegant pose and contrasting colors draw the viewer's attention.
Technique & Style
The work showcases the Havell family's expertise in aquatint, a technique they mastered. Hand-coloring adds depth and dimensionality to the composition.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr., from a family of engravers and artists, followed in the footsteps of his father and uncle, both influential in their 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.
