A Starling c. 17th century

Curator: This is a charming, small watercolor drawing called "A Starling," held in the Harvard Art Museums. The artist is unknown. It looks like it's been plucked right out of a naturalist's notebook. Editor: It seems so precise, doesn't it? Almost clinical, like it's meant for study rather than admiration. But the colors are unexpectedly vibrant. Curator: Precisely! Though anonymous, the artist clearly understood the bird's iridescent plumage. Starlings are not just black—there are blues, purples, greens. It speaks to a keen eye. Editor: I wonder about the choice of subject. Starlings, though beautiful, are often considered pests. Was this a commentary on value, on what we choose to see or ignore? Curator: Perhaps, or maybe the artist was simply captivated by its form. These small glimpses into the past often pose more questions than answers. Editor: True. In any case, it prompts us to consider the humble starling with a newfound respect.