Rose spoonbill
1835-1838
Engraving on paper (65x95 cm)
from Birds of America, 1835-38, Vol. 4
1835-1838
Engraving on paper (65x95 cm)
from Birds of America, 1835-38, Vol. 4
*******
John James Audubon has crafted every single detail of this strange bird with exceptional care.
The artist has undertaken an encyclopedic work: cataloging all the birds of North America; result: 435 illustrated tables.
His training is neoclassical and he chose Jacques-Louis David as a model.
Not just theory and study, much less a search for beauty as an end in itself; Audubon wanted to give practical value to his technique, giving a strong impulse to his ornithological passion.
The titanic work took a lot of time and as much money, which he also had to look for in the UK. It was worth it: even today it is considered an important work of art and a precious scientific document.
Given the success of this adventure, he also dedicated the last seven years of his life to quadrupeds.
Comparing artists: Agasse, Catlin, David, Stubbs
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