An illustration of Atlantic puffins. Engraved print on paper. Plate 213 in The Birds of America (1834).
This free display of engravings from John James Audubon's The Birds of America reaffirms why it continues to inspire artists, bird experts and conservationists alike.
John James Audubon was born in 1785. A self-taught wildlife artist, he spent twenty years travelling North America to record birds for his book. Published between 1827 and 1838, the 435 prints transformed bird illustration through realistic proportions, animated poses and innovative new printing techniques. The Birds of America is a feat of artistry and technical skill.
Display highlights include:
- full-size engravings from The Birds of America
- a taxidermy specimen of the species depicted in the engravings
- a volume of Ornithological Biography, the companion volume to The Birds of America
- a portrait of Audubon by Lance Calkin
- insights into Audubon's groundbreaking artistic methods
- details of the printing process that brought The Birds of America to life
Highlights
Louisiana heron
Plate 217 depicts a tricoloured heron, described by Audubon as 'deliacate in form, beautiful in plumage, and graceful in its movements.'
Greater prairie chicken
Plate 186 shows a snapshot of bird behaviour when a 'disappointed' male greater prairie chicken attacks its rival.
Merganser
Plate 401 depicts a male and female merganser in a dymanic pose among the Sarracenia plant, abundant from Florida to Georgia.
