Artwork
The Purple Martin (Hirundo purpurea)
The Purple Martin (Hirundo purpurea) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Mark Catesby. It dates from 1737 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower center in plate: MC: lower left in plate: Smilax &c.; lower right in plate: Hirundo Purpurea. / The Purple Martin; upper right in plate: T. 51
About this work
Overview
The Purple Martin is a print created by Mark Catesby in 1737, combining etching, engraving, and hand coloring on laid paper. It is part of his Natural History of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama Islands, a comprehensive documentation of North American wildlife.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a Purple Martin perched on a wooden fence post surrounded by ivy, accurately capturing the bird's dark plumage and its natural environment. The level of detail reflects Catesby's scientific approach to documenting species.
Technique & Style
The work showcases Catesby's skill in etching and engraving, with the addition of hand coloring enhancing the image. The technique allowed for the reproduction of detailed illustrations, contributing to the scientific value of the Natural History.
History & Provenance
Mark Catesby, an English naturalist, traveled to North America to study its flora and fauna, publishing his findings between 1729 and 1747. The Purple Martin is one of the many species documented during this period, representing a significant contribution to the field of natural history.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Mark Catesby (24 March 1683 – 23 December 1749) was an English naturalist who studied the flora and fauna of the New World.
