Enicurus Maculatus (Spotted Forktail)
1822
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1822
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This bird stands still on a patch of grass, its black-and-white wings folded tight. Its tail is long, with bold white spots, and its legs are bright yellow. The background is plain, letting the bird’s colors pop. The name below it, *Enicurus maculatus*, is its scientific title—this is a real bird, not just art. The artist copied it from life, using careful lines and soft shading. Next, check out lithography to see how artists like this made prints before photography.
