Smew or White Nun

Art Historical Context

"Smew or White Nun is a stunning print from John James Audubon's monumental *The Birds of America* (1827–1838), one of the most ambitious natural history projects of the 19th century. Created 1836 by master engraver Robert Havell Audubon's original watercolor, it depicts the elegant Smew duck—also known as the White Nun—for its pristine plumage. Audubon, a pioneering American ornithologist and artist, sought to portray birds life-sized and in dynamic poses, revolutionizing scientific illustration by blending artistry with meticulous observation. The medium, a hand-colored engraving and aquatint on Whatman wove paper, exemplifies the technical brilliance of the era. Aquatint allowed for subtle tonal gradations mimicking feathers' textures, while skilled colorists added vibrant hues by hand, ensuring each of the folio's 435 plates was a unique work of art. Printed on large elephant-folio sheets, these were luxury items for elite collectors, advancing both printmaking and avian studies. Now in the National Gallery of Art's collection (gift of Mrs. Walter B. James), this print captures Audubon's passion for America's wilderness, inviting visitors to marvel at nature's beauty through 19th-century eyes. A testament to collaboration between artist and engraver, it remains a highlight of Romantic-era naturalism.

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...