Artwork
Whip-poor-will
Whip-poor-will 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
Whip-poor-will is a 1830 print by Robert Havell Jr., created using hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a whip-poor-will, a nocturnal North American bird, perched on a branch with green leaves being eaten by a caterpillar, showcasing the bird's natural habitat.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the Havell family's expertise in aquatint, characterized by detailed, tonal rendering, and reflects the influence of Romanticism, which emphasized emotion and nature.
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, all based in Reading, Berkshire, England.
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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.
