Great Egret (Ardea alba), c. 1821 by John James Audubon
The image was produced in 1821 and it shows a Great Egret perched on a dead limb, with a nocturnal sky in the background. The bird is looking backward, assumed to be preening its white plumage with its yellow bill which is characteristic of the breeding season.
According to Audubon, "The Great Egret was the most difficult to imitate of any bird I have yet undertaken." The image of the Great Egret was never engraved to a Havell plate, so the watercolor is the only form available.
- Measures 4 x 6 in.
- Made in the USA
