A Pelican and Other Birds Near a Pool (The Floating Feather) 1680

Melchior d'Hondecoeter's "A Pelican and Other Birds Near a Pool (The Floating Feather)" is a 17th-century oil painting that showcases the artist's mastery of depicting avian life. The painting features a diverse array of birds in a serene landscape setting. A prominent pelican stands in the foreground, while other birds, including a crane, ducks, and a flamingo, populate the scene. The vibrant colors, meticulous detail, and realistic depiction of the birds demonstrate d'Hondecoeter's talent in animal portraiture and his dedication to naturalism, a prevalent artistic trend of the era. The floating feather in the title likely refers to the single feather near the center of the painting, adding a subtle element of whimsy and a hint of still life to the composition.