Plate 79 Tyrant Fly-catcher 

John James Audubon created this print of two Tyrant Flycatchers as part of his "Birds of America" series in the 19th century. These meticulously rendered birds, perched on a branch with leaves, are more than just scientific illustrations. They offer a window into the cultural attitudes towards the natural world at the time. Audubon's project reflects a burgeoning interest in natural history and the ambition to document the American landscape. Consider the context: America was expanding westward, and there was a drive to inventory its resources, both natural and economic. Institutions like museums and scientific societies fostered the production of such images, shaping the way people understood their relationship with nature. Audubon’s work, while seemingly objective, was inevitably shaped by the social and economic forces of his time, capturing a specific vision of American wilderness. Understanding art like this requires historical research, delving into the scientific publications, travel narratives, and cultural trends that influenced its creation.