Cayenne Tern

Art Historical Context

Behold the *Cayenne Tern* (1835), a stunning hand-colored engraving and aquatint by Robertell, faithfully reproducing John James Audubon's original watercolor. This print hails from Audubon's groundbreaking *Birds of America* (1827–1838), a monumental series of 435 life-sized bird illustrations that captivated 19th-century audiences and revolutionized ornithological art. Audubon, a self-taught artist and naturalist, posed his birds in dynamic, naturalistic scenes—here, the elegant tern perches alertly amid its tropical habitat, evoking the wild coasts of Cayenne (modern-day French Guiana). Havell's mastery shines in the aquatint technique, which captures subtle tonal gradients for feathers and skies, while fine engravings add intricate details. Printed on high-quality Whatman wove paper and meticulously hand-colored by a studio of artists, each plate achieved vivid realism unmatched by contemporaries. This medium elevated prints from mere reproductions to collector's treasures, making Audubon's vision accessible beyond his originals. A gift to the National Gallery of Art from Mrs. Walter B. James, *Cayenne Tern* exemplifies early American natural history art's blend of science and beauty. It invites visitors to marvel at Audubon's passion for preservation, reminding us of biodiversity's fragile grace. (198 words)

About the Artist

Robert Havell after John James Audubon

Robert Havell Jr., born on November 25, 1793, in Reading, Berkshire, England, was the son of renowned engraver and publisher Robert Havell Sr. and Lydia Miller Phillips. Growing up in a family of artists that included notable engravers and etchers, he trained under his father, mastering aquatint techniques early on. Though briefly estranged from the family business, Havell reconciled with his fath...