Ornament with a Peacock
1788
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1788
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a peacock perched on a swirling branch. The bird faces left, its tail feathers spread out in a fan. Around them, leaves, flowers, and vines twist in a decorative pattern, filling the whole frame. The peacock’s tail feathers are detailed with small spots and curves, making them look almost three-dimensional. The artist used shading to give depth to the leaves and flowers. Look up etching to see how artists like this one create fine lines and textures.
