“Plate 43. Cedar Bird” is an exquisite illustration by John James Audubon, created during the Naturalism art movement and is part of the renowned “Birds of America” series from 1827-1838. This artwork falls within the illustration genre and showcases Audubon’s dedication to the natural world and accurate depiction of bird species.
The artwork features two Cedar Birds, also known as Cedar Waxwings, perched poised on a delicate cedar branch. The meticulous detail captures the birds’ characteristic features: sleek body, distinct crest, and bright red wax-like tips on the wings. The cedar branch complements the composition with its green, needle-like foliage, providing a realistic and balanced setting for the birds. The background of the artwork is unadorned, placing emphasis on the birds and the cedar branch, thus enhancing the viewer’s focus on the natural beauty and intricacies of the subjects. Audubon’s technique exemplifies his profound ability to blend scientific accuracy with artistic finesse, making the illustration both an educational and aesthetic delight.
