Black-billed Magpie (Pica pica), Havell plate no. 357

John James Audubon

ca. 1835–1836

Watercolor, pastel, graphite, gouache, white lead pigment, and black ink with scratching out and touches of glazing on paper, laid on card

New York Historical

Two black-billed magpies are depicted, one in flight with wings spread and the other perched on a branch. This bird has provided inspiration to great artists, such as the composer Gioachino Rossini and the artist Claude Monet. Purchased for the Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon Object number 1863.17.357