The Blue Heron (Ardea coerulea)

Mark Catesby, published 1731–1743

This is a painting of a blue heron standing beside water. The heron has deep blue plumage, a long neck, and a pointed beak suited for fishing. Its legs are long and green. The eye is detailed. The surroundings include grass, cattail plants, and water, suggesting a wetland habitat. The painting is in the style of John James Audubon.
Artist
Mark Catesby
Date
published 1731–1743
Type
Print
Medium
etching and engraving with hand coloring on wove paper
Dimensions
35.5 × 25.6 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a painting of a blue heron standing beside water. The heron has deep blue plumage, a long neck, and a pointed beak suited for fishing. Its legs are long and green. The eye is detailed. The surroundings include grass, cattail plants, and water, suggesting a wetland habitat. The painting is in the style of John James Audubon.

Mark Catesby