Scarlet Ibis

Scarlet Ibis

Robert Havell Jr.

1837

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From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This bird stands out with its bright red face and long, curved beak. Its body is mostly grayish-brown, but its wings are a deep red. The bird is perched on one leg on a rocky shore near water, with the other leg lifted. The background shows a calm body of water and a distant, hazy land. The name *Scarlet Ibis* hints this is a real bird, not just a made-up one. Its bright colors and dramatic pose make it look almost like a fantasy creature. Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints before photography.

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