“Plate 62. Passenger Pigeon,” part of the renowned “Birds of America” series by John James Audubon, is an exemplary piece of Naturalism within the illustration genre. Created between 1827 and 1838, the artwork beautifully showcases Audubon’s detailed observation and representation of wildlife, particularly focusing on the Passenger Pigeon.
The artwork portrays two Passenger Pigeons perched elegantly on a tree branch, captured in mid-interaction. The artist’s adeptness in naturalistic detail is evident in the varied textures and colors of the pigeons’ plumage. One pigeon is positioned above the other, both birds closely engaged, emphasizing the natural beauty and behaviors of the species. Surrounding elements, such as leaves and tree branches, are meticulously illustrated to reflect the pigeons’ natural habitat. The intricate detailing and realistic portrayal, characteristic of Audubon’s work, highlight the scientific as well as artistic value of this illustration.
