Who painted Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird?

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird was painted by Robert Havell Jr. in 1837.

Where can I see Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird?

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird?

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird

Robert Havell Jr. , 1837

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird 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

Townsend's Warbler, Arctic Blue Bird and Western Blue Bird is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print on Whatman wove paper, created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1837.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts four birds perched on branches with red flowers, showcasing a variety of plumage colors and detailed foliage. The image is a representation of natural history, reflecting the artist's engagement with naturalist illustration.

Technique & Style

The print combines fine lines and shading to achieve a realistic representation of the birds' feathers. The use of hand-coloring and aquatint creates a striking contrast between the vibrant birds and the plain background.

History & Provenance

Robert Havell Jr. continued the family tradition of aquatint specialists, building on the craft established by his father and uncle. The Havell family's involvement in naturalist illustration and other artistic pursuits is evident in this work.

Artist & collection

Artist

Robert Havell Jr.

The Havell family of Reading, Berkshire, England, included a number of notable engravers, etchers and painters, as well as writers, publishers, educators, and musicians.