Artwork

Boat-Tailed Grackle

Boat-Tailed Grackle, by John T. Bowen, ink, 1840
Boat-Tailed Grackle, by John T. Bowen, ink, 1840

Boat-Tailed Grackle is an ink print by the Romanticist artist John T. Bowen. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Boat-Tailed Grackle is a hand-colored lithograph on wove paper created by John T. Bowen in 1840.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a male and female Boat-tailed Grackle perched on a branch with green leaves. The male, shown above, has a brown plumage with a long tail, while the female below is glossy black. The birds are captured in a moment of movement, facing slightly different directions.

Technique & Style

The lithograph showcases the artist's attention to detail through its careful hand-coloring, which highlights the birds' features, such as the brown streaks on the male's neck. The technique of lithography allowed for mass production of the image while maintaining a level of detail and color.

Boat-tailed Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle, Havell, Jr., Robert

Artist & collection

Portrait of John T. Bowen

Artist

John T. Bowen

John T. Bowen (1840–1840) was an artist.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Boat-Tailed Grackle?

Boat-Tailed Grackle was painted by John T. Bowen in 1840.

Where can I see Boat-Tailed Grackle?

Boat-Tailed Grackle is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Boat-Tailed Grackle?

Boat-Tailed Grackle is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Boat-Tailed Grackle?

Museum-quality prints of Boat-Tailed Grackle are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.