Artwork
Lazuli Finch, Clay-colored Finch and Oregon Snow Finch
Lazuli Finch, Clay-colored Finch and Oregon Snow Finch 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
Lazuli Finch, Clay-colored Finch and Oregon Snow Finch is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print on Whatman wove paper, created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1837.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts three finch species perched on flowering branches, identified by labels beneath each bird. The scene showcases the birds' distinct plumage and natural surroundings, rendered with attention to detail.
Technique & Style
Havell Jr. employed precise engraving and delicate hand-coloring to achieve a lifelike representation of the birds and their environment. Fine lines and shading create texture and depth, particularly in the rendering of feathers and foliage.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr., a member of a family of engravers, etchers, and painters from Reading, Berkshire, England, produced this print. His background in a tradition of aquatint specialists with ties to Indian art and culture is notable.
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.
