Artwork
Horned Grebe
Horned Grebe is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Horned Grebe is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1835.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a male and female horned grebe, showcasing the species' distinctive plumage and behaviors. The artist highlights the contrast between the male's vibrant breeding colors and the female's more subdued appearance, illustrating seasonal changes in the birds' appearance.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the Havell family's expertise in aquatint, a technique they mastered. Engraving and hand-coloring allow for detailed, nuanced representations of the birds and their surroundings.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr. came from a family of engravers, etchers, and painters based in Reading, Berkshire, England, continuing a tradition established by his father and uncle.
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.
