Pica pica & cyanopica cyanus & coloeus monedula Walter Linsenmaier

The composition presents three avian subjects arranged against a stark, dark background. The artist has rendered them with meticulous detail, emphasizing their plumage and anatomical structure. A bird in flight dominates the upper portion of the scene; its wings are spread wide, displaying a vibrant palette of blues, greens, and blacks. This dynamic pose suggests movement and perhaps a sense of urgency or escape.
Below it, two birds stand on the ground, facing slightly towards the viewer. The one positioned centrally exhibits a muted grey coloration with striking blue accents around the eyes and tail feathers. Its posture is alert, suggesting observation or readiness. To its left, another bird mirrors this stance, but displays a more subdued palette of greys and browns, creating a subtle contrast in tone and texture.
The artist’s choice to depict these birds against a plain background serves to isolate them, drawing the viewers attention directly to their form and coloration. The inclusion of Latin nomenclature beneath the image indicates its purpose as an ornithological study or illustration – a scientific record rather than purely aesthetic representation.
Subtly, there is a sense of hierarchy established through placement; the flying bird commands visual dominance, while the grounded birds appear subordinate. This arrangement might allude to themes of freedom versus confinement, or perhaps simply reflect the natural behaviors of these species. The overall effect is one of quiet observation and precise documentation, characteristic of scientific illustration aimed at conveying accurate information about the natural world.