Pheasants Breaking Out Of Cover 1908

Archibald Thorburn made this painting of pheasants breaking out of cover with watercolour, and what I find so compelling is the way he uses this medium to create a world of soft edges and blurred motion. It's not about sharp realism; it's about capturing a fleeting moment. Look at the top pheasant, how the brushstrokes fade and blend, giving the sense of movement. I imagine Thorburn working quickly, trying to pin down the essence of these birds taking flight. The colours are muted, mostly browns and greens, but there are flashes of brighter colour on the male pheasant’s head and wing detail. The texture of the paper comes through in places, reminding us of the work’s physical presence. This piece reminds me a little of Audubon’s bird paintings. Both artists share a love for the natural world, but while Audubon is all about scientific precision, Thorburn is more interested in atmosphere and emotion.