Artist: Wilhelm von Wright
Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging
"Great grey owl, 1830 - 1870" by Wilhelm von Wright is a masterful ornithological illustration that exemplifies the artist's detailed and enthusiastic approach to the documentation of natural history. Wilhelm von Wright (1810-1887), a Finnish-Swedish painter and illustrator, focused extensively on natural history, specifically ornithology, and was part of a prolific family of artists. His precise and aesthetically pleasing representations are key contributions to both art and science, merging scientific accuracy with artistic beauty.
The painting depicts a Great Grey Owl with meticulous detail, perched elegantly on a branch. The owl's broad, rounded head is highlighted by a facial disc of concentric circles of varied shades of grey, framed by delicate, feathery ruff. Its large, piercing yellow eyes provide an intense focal point against the more muted tones of its feathers, evoking an aura of wise majesty and alertness. Each feather is painstakingly rendered, from the soft down on its chest to the intricate patterns of its mottled grey and brown plumage, which help camouflage the bird in its natural habitat.
The background is understated, featuring soft washes of greenish and brown hues, suggesting a forest setting. This minimalist backdrop ensures that the viewer's attention remains fixed on the exquisite detailing of the owl itself. The branch on which the owl perches shows careful texturing, adding to the authenticity of the natural setting.
The original painting is part of the collection at the Finnish National Gallery, specifically within the Ateneum Art Museum in Helsinki, Finland. This institution holds a significant number of works by Wilhelm von Wright and his brothers Magnus and Ferdinand, who were also renowned natural history artists.
Wilhelm von Wright's career was steeped in the tradition of scientific illustration, a field in which detailed and accurate representation was paramount. He worked during a period when the study of natural sciences was burgeoning, and artists played an essential role in documenting species for educational purposes. His work fits into the broader context of 19th-century natural history art, which sought to catalog and understand the natural world with newfound rigor following the Enlightenment.
Von Wright’s contributions are particularly notable within the Scandinavian region, where his works have had a lasting impact. The "Great grey owl" painting, created sometime between 1830 and 1870, coincides with an era when he was actively working on bird illustrations for several significant publications, including the monumental "Svenska Fåglar" (Swedish Birds), published between 1828 and 1838, to which all three Wright brothers contributed.
1. Scientific Precision and Aesthetic Value:
The painting exemplifies the incredible precision that Wilhelm von Wright brought to his works. It serves a dual purpose: scientifically accurate for ornithologists and captivating for art lovers.
2. Contribution to Ornithology:
The painting reflects von Wright’s commitment to ornithology, contributing valuable visual records that support scientific study and conservation efforts for bird species.
3. Collaborative Effort:
The Wright brothers often collaborated on scientific publications, blending their artistic talents to create comprehensive visual documentation of Scandinavian wildlife.
4. Historical Significance:
The painting is not just an artistic endeavor but a historical document that embodies the 19th-century spirit of exploration and documentation of the natural world.
In conclusion, "Great grey owl, 1830 - 1870" by Wilhelm von Wright is an extraordinary piece that not only showcases the artist’s expertise and dedication but also serves as an invaluable artifact within both the artistic and scientific communities. It stands as a testimony to the harmonious union of art and science during an era of burgeoning natural history studies.
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