Artwork
Golden-eye Duck
Golden-eye Duck 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
Golden-eye Duck is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print on Whatman wove paper created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1836.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts three goldeneye ducks in flight against a pale blue sky, showcasing their distinctive plumage and markings. The ducks' feathers, wings, and legs are rendered in detail, with the lead duck having a glossy green head and white chest.
Technique & Style
The print combines engraving and aquatint techniques to achieve tonal subtleties, with fine lines and shading used to create a realistic representation of the ducks' feathers. The image was colored by hand, adding to its naturalistic effect.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr. was part of a family of engravers and etchers with a background in reproductive printmaking and a history of engagement with Indian art and culture.
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.
