Artwork
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatch is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1831 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Red-breasted Nuthatch is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1831. It exemplifies the Havell family's expertise in aquatint and natural history illustration.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a bird perched on a branch, its head turned to the left, showcasing its blue-gray plumage and distinctive reddish-brown breast patch. The bird's gaze is directed downwards, as if observing something on the ground.
Technique & Style
The work combines hand-coloring with aquatint, a technique in which the Havells were skilled practitioners. The use of Whatman wove paper, a high-quality support, allowed for detailed rendering.
Context
The print is part of a tradition of natural history illustration, reflecting the Havell family's involvement in this field and their broader cultural engagements, including 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.
