Key-westduif
1827-1838
John James Audubon captured a tender, dynamic moment between a male and female Key West Dove (now known as the Common Ground Dove) in this vibrant plate from his monumental 'Birds of America.' The male, with his rich chestnut wings spread wide, appears to be bowing or displaying to the softer-hued female amidst a lush tangle of purple and white morning glories. Audubon was famous for posing his subjects in lifelike action rather than stiff profiles, often after shooting them and wiring them into position to achieve these dramatic angles. This particular bird is actually the smallest pigeon in North America, making its larger-than-life, romantic presentation here all the more charming.
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