Plate 134 Hemlock Warbler 

John James Audubon created Plate 134, Hemlock Warbler using a combination of etching, aquatint, and hand coloring. The process starts with an etching, where lines are scratched into a metal plate, followed by aquatint which uses acid to create tonal areas. The real magic happens with the hand coloring. Each print from the edition required an individual artist to painstakingly add watercolor, bringing Audubon's vivid ornithological vision to life. The success of Audubon's ambitious "Birds of America" project depended on the skilled labor of numerous artisans. From the paper makers to the engravers and colorists, these individuals were essential to Audubon's artistic process. They deserve recognition for their contribution in creating one of the most celebrated works of American art. This print invites us to appreciate the blend of artistic vision, skilled craftsmanship, and the collective effort required to produce such a masterpiece.