Greater spotted woodpecker, Picus major, Dendrocopos major

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Greater spotted woodpecker, Picus major, Dendrocopos major

Greater spotted woodpecker, Picus major, Dendrocopos major.. 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

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 14211421

© Florilegius / Mary Evans

1811 Dendrocopos Graves Greater Major Ornithology Picus Spotted Woodpecker

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Animals > Birds > Piciformes > Woodpeckers > Great Spotted Woodpecker

> Arts > Artists > Related Images

EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning handcolored copperplate print showcases the Greater Spotted Woodpecker (Picus major, Dendrocopos major), a captivating bird species native to Europe and Asia. The print, drawn and engraved by the multitalented George Graves in 1821, is an exquisite example of the intricate detail and artistry that characterized the ornithological illustrations of the time. George Graves was a remarkable figure in the world of natural history, with a diverse skillset that included bookselling, publishing, art, and engraving. He is best known for his contributions to British Ornithology, a publication that showcased his meticulous illustrations of various bird species. This particular print of the Greater Spotted Woodpecker is taken from that work, which was published in Walworth in 1821. The Greater Spotted Woodpecker is easily recognizable by its distinctive black and white plumage, with red spots on its back and wings. The bird's beak is long and chisel-like, a necessary adaptation for its diet of insects and nuts, which it hammers out of trees. The woodpecker's crest feathers are raised in this print, adding to the sense of alertness and energy that characterizes this striking image. Graves's handcolored copperplate engraving captures the beauty and intricacy of the Greater Spotted Woodpecker in a way that invites the viewer to appreciate the natural world in all its complexity. The use of handcoloring adds an additional layer of depth and richness to the print, making it a valuable historical artifact as well as a work of art in its own right.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.