The artwork, “Plate 151 Turkey Buzzard,” was created by John James Audubon and belongs to the art movement known as Naturalism. Falling under the genre of illustration, it is a part of the renowned series “Birds of America 1827-1838.”
In the artwork, Audubon meticulously illustrates two turkey buzzards. The birds are depicted with great precision and attention to detail, showcasing their distinctive features and natural posture. One of the buzzards is perched on a gnarled branch, with its wings slightly outstretched, providing a glimpse of its underwing pattern and feather details. The other buzzard is positioned above, gazing outwards, highlighting its hooked beak and the texture of its dark plumage. The scene captures the essence of these birds in their natural habitat, with a careful rendering of the surrounding branches that enhance the lifelike quality of the illustration. The use of color and intricate detailing exemplifies Audubon’s dedication to documenting bird species with scientific accuracy and artistic beauty.