The Pied-billed Dobchick (Colymbus podiceps)

published 1731-1743

Mark Catesby

Associated Names
Mark Catesby

Artist, English, 1679 - 1749

This is a painting of a bird with webbed feet, identified as "Podiceps," likely a type of grebe, depicted in water. The image portrays the bird from a side angle, with its body mostly round and head elegantly curved towards its back, as it sits on a blue patch representing water. The bird's plumage is shown in shades of brown with intricate detailing. The feet are detailed with lines suggesting a scale-like texture, extending out behind the bird. This painting is in the style of naturalist illustrations of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving with hand coloring on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Dr. and Mrs. George Benjamin Green

  • Dimensions

    plate: 26.2 × 34 cm (10 5/16 × 13 3/8 in.)
    sheet: 35.3 × 50.8 cm (13 7/8 × 20 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1967.10.3

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Natural History, Vol. vol.1, no. 91

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1771

  • Catesby, Mark. The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands. London: 1771.

Watermarks

fleur-de-lis in shield surmounted by crown

Wikidata ID

Q65511186

You may be interested in

Loading Results