Scarlet Ibis
1837
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1837
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
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.