Magpie and Another Bird

About this work

This engraving shows two birds perched on a branch. One is a magpie with a long tail and black-and-white feathers, while the other is smaller and plainer. Behind them, a village with small houses and a windmill sits in a hilly landscape, surrounded by trees and bushes. The magpie’s name is written above it, and the artist’s signature is at the bottom. This kind of detailed bird and nature scene was common in early printed works. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this carved images into metal plates.