Artwork
Louisiana Tanager and Scarlet Tanager
Louisiana Tanager and Scarlet Tanager 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
Louisiana Tanager and Scarlet Tanager is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1837 on Whatman wove paper. The work showcases the artist's skill in combining engraving and aquatint techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts four birds of two species (Louisiana Tanager and Scarlet Tanager) in a naturalistic setting, with one in flight and others perched on a tree branch amidst green leaves, emphasizing their natural habitat.
Technique & Style
Havell Jr. utilized the aquatint technique, a specialty of his family, to achieve detailed, naturalistic renderings. The piece features vibrant yellow and red bird plumage against a muted beige background, highlighting the effective use of color contrast.
History & Provenance
As a member of the renowned Havell family of artists (including his father Robert Havell the Elder, uncle Luke Havell, and cousin Daniel Havell), Robert Havell Jr. continued the family tradition in engraving and aquatint, though specific provenance details for this work are not provided.
Context
While the piece reflects the family's broader engagement with various artistic subjects, no direct connection to their noted work with Indian art and culture is apparent in this bird-themed print.
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.
Golden-winged Warbler and Cape May Warbler
White-winged Crossbill
Purple Finch
Little Tyrant Flycatcher, Small-Headed Flycatcher, Blue Mountain Warbler, Bartram's Vireo, Short-Legged Pewee, and Rocky Mountain Flycatcher
Lazuli Finch
Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler and Mourning Warbler
Pine Grosbeak
Arkansaw Siskin, Mealy Red-poll, Louisiana Tanager, Townsend's Finch and Buff-breasted Finch