Plate IV, Six Ostriches in a Line, from Ballet of Ostriches, Ballet by Jean Baptiste Balbi for "La Finta Pazza" c. 17th century

Curator: This is Plate IV, "Six Ostriches in a Line," by Valerio Spada, part of the "Ballet of Ostriches" for "La Finta Pazza." Editor: They look like they're gossiping—staging some avian intervention. Curator: Note the linear arrangement, the repetitive yet subtly varied forms. Spada masterfully uses line to define volume and texture. The negative space creates a rhythmic interplay. Editor: The light hatching gives them such delicate plumage and they seem so self-important strutting along like that! Curator: Indeed, the artist captures a balance of both detail and movement. It really is a compelling study in form. Editor: Yes, they're really quite charming, like a feathered chorus line frozen in time.