Osculant Toucan (Ramphastos osculans)

Osculant Toucan (Ramphastos osculans)

John Gould

1842

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This bird has a giant yellow-and-black beak and bright feathers—black body with red and yellow patches. It’s perched on a branch with leaves, holding what looks like a small animal in its claws. The background is plain, so the bird stands out clearly. The name under it says *Ramphastos osculans*, or "Osculant Toucan." Artists like this one often drew animals with careful detail. Next, check out lithography to see how this print was made.

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