Studies of Geese 

James Ward rendered these Studies of Geese in watercolor, likely in England sometime in the early 19th century. The texture of the goose's feathers are beautifully captured through the transparent layers of the watercolor, giving them a soft, almost fluffy quality. The medium allowed for easy blending and layering of colors to mimic the subtle nuances of light and shadow on the geese's plumage. It's a process that demands control and precision, as each layer influences the final appearance. Watercolor had become increasingly popular during this period, not just for fine art, but also for scientific illustration and amateur pursuits. This speaks to a broader democratization of image-making, where careful observation of the natural world was valued across different social classes. Ultimately, understanding the materiality and historical context of works such as these, helps us to move beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.