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Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana), Study for Havell pl. 64
Artist/Maker (1785 – 1851)
Assisted Artist (1787 - 1874)

Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana), Study for Havell pl. 64

ca. 1812; ca. 1825
Watercolor, graphite, pastel, and black ink with touches of gouache and selective glazing on paper, laid on card
Mat: 29 x 23 in. (73.7 x 58.4 cm)
Sheet: 18 9/16 in. × 12 in. (47.1 × 30.5 cm)
Purchased for the Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon
1863.17.64
The background flora has been identified as Mandrake, Mandragora or May apple (Podophyllum peltatum); bird probably painted ca. 1812; plant probably painted ca. 1825.
DescriptionMale
InscribedInscribed at lower left in brown ink: "No 13. Plate 64. / Published / 1829. --"; below: "Drawn from Nature by Lucy Audubon, / Mr Havell will please have Lucy Audubon names / on this plate instead of mine. ---"; at lower center: "Swamp Sparrow Male -- / Spiza palustris / Plant Vulgo May Apple -- / Podophyllum peltatum"; at lower right [crossed out]: "Plant Podophyllum peltatum"
ClassificationsDRAWINGS
Collections
  • Audubon's Watercolors for The Birds of America