The Stork (Ciconia Alba)
1734
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1734
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This bird stands tall on one leg, its long red beak and legs bright against a pale background. Its feathers are mostly white, with black wings folded neatly at its sides. The water below is calm, with simple green plants poking up around its feet. The artist used careful lines to show every feather and ripple. This style was common in old science books to teach people about animals. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.