Three Flamingos near a Basin 1872

August Allebé made this watercolor, Three Flamingos near a Basin, in 1872. It depicts three flamingos around a small water basin. The composition, typical of Allebé's style, focuses on capturing the immediate visual experience. Painted during a time of increasing urbanization in the Netherlands, this work reflects a growing interest in naturalism and the exotic. As cities expanded, there was a parallel fascination with the natural world, often seen as a refuge from industrial life. Zoos and menageries, becoming increasingly popular, allowed urban dwellers to encounter animals from distant lands, like these flamingos. Allebé’s choice of subject matter speaks to this cultural trend. To fully appreciate this work, one might delve into the historical records of Dutch zoos and the public's perception of exotic animals during the late 19th century. It reminds us that what we see in art is always shaped by the society and institutions of its time.