The Towhe Bird (Fringilla erythrophthalma)
1754
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1754
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows two birds perched on large green leaves. One bird is mostly black with a bright orange chest and red eye, while the other is brown and speckled. The leaves are detailed with veins and stems, and the background is plain, letting the birds and leaves stand out. The birds are labeled as *The Tow-he Bird* and *The Cow-pen Bird*, suggesting this was meant as a scientific record. The artist used careful coloring to show each feather and leaf texture. Look up etching to see how artists like this made precise prints by hand.