Museum Collections
Luce Center
Gull-billed Tern (Sterna nilotica), Havell plate no. 410; sketch of an insect below bird's beak
Object Number:
1863.17.410
Date:
1837
Medium:
Watercolor, graphite, black ink, and gouache on paper, laid on card
Dimensions:
Paper: 21 3/4 x 15 13/16 in. (55.2 x 40.2 cm)
Mat: 29 x 23 in. (73.7 x 58.4 cm)
Marks:
Watermark: JWHATMAN / 1836
Inscriptions:
Inscribed at lower left in graphite[erased]: "...Blue Jay Tern..."; at lower center in graphite: "Marsh tern. Sterna anglica"; at lower right: "Ent. Cof / 16"; at upper right: "Marsh Tern -- / Sterna arenea or anglica? / Length of Middle Tail feather 3 Inches / -- " -- " -- Longest -- " -- " -- 4 1/2 " -- / Alar extent. -- 33. " -- / general colour above paler than[cut] / S. Hirundo -- / Cry loud and hoars. -- distinguishable[cut] / all others of the Genus. -- / Beneath pure white / eyes light greyish hazel. --"
Description:
Adult plumage
Gallery Label:
Audubon accidentally left this painting at Rev. John Bachman's home, fortunately Bachman was able to ship it to London to be included in the "Birds of America"
Credit Line:
Purchased for the Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.