Lagopède alpin
1827-1838
John James Audubon was obsessed with capturing birds in every possible outfit, and this plate from his legendary 'The Birds of America' series is a perfect example. Here, he showcases the Rock Grouse (or Ptarmigan) in three distinct seasonal disguises: a stark white winter coat for blending into snow, a mottled brown summer look, and a striking striped pattern, all set against a rugged mountain backdrop. Audubon didn't just paint birds; he told their life stories through these dramatic transformations, proving that nature is the ultimate fashion designer. This specific print, Plate 348, was hand-colored and engraved by Robert Havell in 1827, part of a massive undertaking to document every bird species in North America.
- Technique
- Hand-colored engraving (Aquatint)
- Material
- Paper
- Dimensions
- 39.5 x 29.5 inches (Double Elephant Folio)
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