This still life of a dead game-bird shows Pils’ skilled brushwork in the delicate portrayal of its plumage.

Hanging by its left foot, the head and body are supported by a surface covered in red cloth and the wings have fallen open to reveal their patterning.

Hunting and habitat loss has caused the bittern, a reclusive heron-like bird, to become exceedingly rare.

Shadows showing through the surface reveal that this work was painted on top of another. It is possible to make out a full-length inverted study of a nude man, his feet coinciding with the bird’s left foot.

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: Edouard-Aimé Pils (1823-1850)
Date: 1848

Image Details
Date: 12 May 2024
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Telephoto Camera 52mm ƒ/2.4
Focal Length: 52mm
Aperture: ƒ/2.4
Shutter Speed: 1/33s
ISO: 1000
Licensing: Image of a Bowes Museum asset. This image cannot be licensed.