Olive-sided Flycatcher 1833

Editor: This is Robert Havell Jr.’s "Olive-sided Flycatcher," a lovely print from the 19th century. There's a real sense of stillness and poised energy in the birds. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Oh, this is charming! It's more than just an illustration, isn't it? I'm struck by the way Havell captures the personality of the flycatchers—one so still, the other in mid-flight. The precision is scientific, but the arrangement is pure artistry. What do you make of the choice of plant? Editor: I hadn't thought about that. It kind of grounds the birds, gives them a habitat. Curator: Exactly! It’s like he's creating a miniature world, a fleeting moment captured forever. It is a reminder of our connection to nature and the beauty of observation. I'll be thinking about this image of birds for a while!