Hawfinch
1800
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1800
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a hawfinch perched on a branch. The bird’s brown feathers and sharp beak stand out against the green leaves. The background is plain and dark, so the bird is the main focus. These small pictures were made in big batches. British travelers bought them to remember the animals they saw abroad. Each bird looks real, but the same style was used over and over. Look for more of these at the Victoria and Albert Museum.