The Bald Eagle (Falco leucocephalus) Possibly 1731 - 1743

Mark Catesby likely produced this watercolor and graphite drawing of a Bald Eagle in the first half of the 18th century. Note the fine lines of graphite defining the eagle's form, with washes of watercolor carefully applied to bring the bird to life. Look closely, and you can see how the artist has used the texture of the paper itself to give a sense of the eagle's plumage. The material simplicity belies the skill and labor required to create this image. Catesby's drawing would have demanded countless hours of work, from the initial sketches to the final application of color. Consider the social context: Catesby was documenting the natural world of the Americas for a European audience. In doing so, he was contributing to a broader project of colonial expansion and resource extraction. By focusing on the materials and processes used to create this image, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex relationship between art, labor, and the natural world.