Artwork
Psittacus albus cristatus maximus
Psittacus albus cristatus maximus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Johann Sebastian Leitner. It dates from 1755 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Psittacus albus cristatus maximus is a hand-colored etching on laid paper created by Johann Sebastian Leitner in 1755.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a large white parrot perched on a branch, characterized by its red tail feathers and pale gray wings. The bird appears calm yet alert, with its head turned to one side.
Technique & Style
The image is rendered in precise lines, capturing the texture of the parrot's feathers. The hand-coloring, added after the etching process, is a distinctive feature of this work, reflecting a common practice among print owners in the 18th century.
Artist & collection
