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Common wagtail, Motacilla vulgaris, White wagtail
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Common wagtail, Motacilla vulgaris, White wagtail
Common wagtail, Motacilla vulgaris, White wagtail, Motacilla alba.. Handcolored copperplate drawn and engraved by George Graves from his own British Ornithology, Walworth, 1821. Graves was a bookseller, publisher, artist, engraver and colorist and worked on botanical and ornithological books
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Media ID 14211346
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
1811 Alba Common Graves Motacilla Ornithology Vulgaris Wagtail
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite handcolored print depicts both the Common Wagtail (Motacilla vulgaris) and the White Wagtail (Motacilla alba), two closely related species of wagtails. The intricately detailed illustration was drawn and engraved by George Graves for his seminal work, "British Ornithology," published in Walworth, London, in 1821. Graves was a versatile figure in the scientific community, excelling not only as a bookseller and publisher but also as an artist, engraver, and colorist. His meticulous work on botanical and ornithological books is celebrated for its accuracy and beauty. The Common Wagtail, also known as the Grey Wagtail, is easily identified by its distinctive yellow underparts and black wings, with a white outer tail feather. The White Wagtail, on the other hand, sports a white underbelly and a black bib, with a yellow tail tip. Both species are characterized by their distinctive wagging tail, which they flick side to side as they forage for food in wetlands and grassy areas. This print, created over 200 years ago, offers a glimpse into the natural history of these charming birds and showcases the remarkable skill of George Graves as an artist and engraver. The hand-coloring adds a vibrant touch, bringing the birds to life and making this print a true work of art.
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