Artwork
Great Cinereous Owl
Great Cinereous Owl is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Great Cinereous Owl is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1837 on Whatman wove paper. It showcases the artist's skill in capturing detailed natural subjects.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a cinereous owl perched on a bare, twisted branch against a serene sky with clouds. The owl's intricate feathers and bright yellow eyes are meticulously rendered, conveying calmness and quiet confidence.
Technique & Style
Havell employed precise engraving for details and subtle aquatint tonalities to achieve depth and texture, particularly in the owl's plumage and the soft, puffy clouds.
History & Provenance
Part of the Havell family's printmaking legacy from Reading, Berkshire, known for aquatint mastery and Indian art connections. Robert Havell Jr.'s work followed in the footsteps of his family, including Robert Havell the Elder and Daniel Havell.
Context
Created within a family tradition of skilled printmakers, the work reflects the Havells' expertise in natural history subjects and their technical proficiency in engraving and aquatint.
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.
