The Bald Eagle (Falco leucocephalus)

probably 1743/1762

Johann Michael Seligmann after Mark Catesby

Associated Names
Johann Michael Seligmann

Artist, German, 1720 - 1762

Mark Catesby

Artist After, English, 1679 - 1749

This is a drawing of a bald eagle in pursuit of fish. The image portrays a bald eagle as it swoops down towards a fish it is catching. Its wings are outstretched and powerful, with detailed illustration of the feathers. The talons are extended to grasp the fish. Above, there is a second bird sketched in flight. Below, a detailed depiction of a fish shows bright colors and scales. The text around the image is in multiple languages, including German, Latin, and French, with similar phrases in each language. This drawing showcases wildlife illustration, likely created for educational purposes.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving with hand coloring on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Collection of Dr. and Mrs. George Benjamin Green

  • Dimensions

    plate: 20.2 x 28.7 cm (7 15/16 x 11 5/16 in.)
    sheet: 27.5 x 44 cm (10 13/16 x 17 5/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1991.163.89


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Dr. and Mrs. George Benjamin Green, Virginia; gift to NGA, 1991.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

across bottom in plate: AQVILA capite albo. AIGLE à tête blanche.; lower center in plate: I.M.Seligmann juxta Originale Sculps.; upper center in plate: Der Adler mit dem weiffen Kopf.; upper left in plate: Tab.II.

Watermarks

J HONIG & ZOONEN

Wikidata ID

Q74895112

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