Plate 67 Red-winged Starling or Marsh Blackbird - John James Audubon

A detailed ornithological study of the Red-winged Blackbird from John James Audubon's Birds of America, featuring hand-coloured engraving techniques.

This print originates from the monumental publication, The Birds of America, produced by John James Audubon between 1827 and 1838. Audubon sought to document every bird species in North America, often depicting them in their natural habitats with a focus on anatomical precision and behavioural accuracy. This specific plate captures the Red-winged Starling, now commonly known as the Red-winged Blackbird, perched upon and flying around the branches of a flowering shrub.

The composition demonstrates the characteristic approach of Audubon, who often arranged multiple specimens on a single page to provide a comprehensive view of the species. The male is shown in flight, displaying the distinctive red and yellow epaulets that give the bird its name. Below, the female and juvenile specimens are depicted with more muted, streaked plumage, reflecting the sexual dimorphism typical of the species. The branches are rendered with delicate precision, providing a sense of scale and environment without overwhelming the subjects.

Audubon worked with engraver Robert Havell Jr. to translate his original watercolours into the large-format copperplate engravings that define this series. The process involved etching the outlines and using aquatint to create tonal depth, followed by hand-colouring by a team of assistants. This method allowed for the reproduction of fine details, such as the texture of the feathers and the subtle variations in colour across the wings. The resulting image is a clear record of the species as observed in the early 19th century. It remains a primary reference for ornithologists and art historians interested in the intersection of scientific observation and artistic representation during the Romantic period.