Artwork
Great Carolina Wren
Great Carolina Wren is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Havell, Jr., Robert. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Great Carolina Wren is a print created by Robert Havell Jr. in 1830 using hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts two Carolina wrens perched on a flowering plant, with one bird singing and the other sitting still. The Carolina wren is a small songbird native to the southeastern United States.
Technique & Style
The work showcases the Havell family's expertise in aquatint, featuring careful lines, shading, and soft yet vivid colors that bring the birds and flowers to life.
History & Provenance
Robert Havell Jr. came from a family of engravers, etchers, and painters, including his father Robert Havell the Elder and uncle Luke Havell.
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Artist & collection
Artist
The Havell family of Reading, Berkshire, England, included a number of notable engravers, etchers and painters, as well as writers, publishers, educators, and musicians.
