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Visit
Open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission is always free

6th and Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20565

Sculpture Garden Extended Hours

Open late until 8:00 p.m. on select nights
Through September 5
Exhibitions & Events
America’s 250th

Celebrating American art and artists
Art & Artists
Open Call

Artists Reimagining the Collection
Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

American Coot

1835

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

Associated Names

Robert Havell, Jr.

Artist, American, born England, 1793 - 1878

John James Audubon

Artist After, American, 1785 - 1851

This is a painting of an American Coot by the water's edge, surrounded by tall grasses. The bird's black plumage contrasts sharply with its pale green legs and striking red eyes, as it stands on a muddy bank next to the clear blue water. Tall, lush green grasses form the backdrop. The detailing in the bird's feathers and feet, as well as in the delicate strands of grass, showcases a careful observation of nature. This is in style of John James Audubon.

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Artwork overview

Medium

hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper
Credit Line

Gift of Mrs. Walter B. James
Accession Number

1945.8.239
Catalogue Raisonné

Birds of America, no. 239

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1827

Audubon, John James. The Birds of America. London: 1827-1838.

Wikidata ID

Q65083091

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