Burrowing Owl, Large-Headed Burrowing Owl andLittle Night Owl
1838
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1838
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows five owls perched and posed against a green, hilly background. Their feathers are detailed in earthy browns, whites, and soft grays, with sharp eyes and delicate markings. Some owls sit on branches, while one large owl stands on the ground, looking alert. Notice how the artist used fine lines to show texture in the feathers—this was done by hand. The names under each owl label their species, like "Burrowing Owl" or "Little Night Owl." Want to know more? Look up engraving to see how artists like this made prints before photography.
