Vigors Vireo
1828
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1828
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows a small bird perched on a plant stem. The bird has yellow on its chest and dark wings, with a thin beak. Above it, a cluster of blue and purple flowers grows, their petals detailed with white centers. The leaves are long and slightly wavy, painted in soft greens. The artist used fine lines to add texture to the feathers and leaves, making them look almost real. The colors are bright but not too bold, giving a calm, natural feel. Want to know more? Check out engraving to see how artists like this one made precise prints.