Artwork
White-crowned Pigeon
White-crowned Pigeon is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Havell Jr.. It dates from 1833 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
White-crowned Pigeon is a hand-colored engraving and aquatint print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1833 on Whatman wove paper. The work features two pigeons of the same species perched on a branch, surrounded by foliage and bright orange flowers.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of the print is a pair of white-crowned pigeons, depicted in their naturalistic habitat. The inclusion of specific species of birds and plants may suggest a focus on ornithological or botanical documentation, though the emotional or symbolic intent behind the specific composition is not immediately clear.
Technique & Style
The print showcases Havell Jr.'s mastery of aquatint, enabling subtle tonal variations that capture the iridescence of the pigeons' predominantly dark blue and green feathers, contrasted with white head patches. Intricate line work defines each feather and leaf, characteristic of 19th-century nature prints' attention to detail.
History & Provenance
Created in 1833 by Robert Havell Jr., a member of a renowned English family of engravers and artists with ties to Indian art, the print reflects the family's technical prowess, especially in aquatint. Specific provenance details (ownership history) are not provided.
Context
Produced in the 19th century, the print aligns with the era's interest in natural history documentation through precise and detailed artwork. The use of hand-coloring and aquatint reflects contemporary printmaking techniques.
Legacy
While specific details on the print's direct influence or current location are not provided, it contributes to the broader legacy of 19th-century natural history illustration and the Havell family's contribution to the development of aquatint techniques in printmaking.
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.
