Artwork

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Yellow-billed Cuckoo, by William Home Lizars, ink, 1827
Yellow-billed Cuckoo, by William Home Lizars, ink, 1827

Yellow-billed Cuckoo is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Home Lizars. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Yellow-billed Cuckoo is a print created by William Home Lizars in 1827 using etching, engraving, and hand coloring on Whatman paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two birds perched on branches with leaves and fruit, accompanied by a butterfly. The birds are distinct, one with a white belly and black tail feathers, the other with brown plumage and a long tail.

Technique & Style

The work combines etching and engraving techniques with hand coloring, resulting in intricate details and textured surfaces. The color palette is subdued, with greens, browns, and whites prevailing. The birds and butterfly are stylized, while the foliage is rendered in greater detail.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Home Lizars

William Home Lizars (1788–1859) was an artist, born in Edinburgh.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.