Pelicans 1850

Wilhelm Gentz’s “Pelicans” (1850) is a pencil study showcasing six different views of the bird. The rapid strokes of the pencil and gestural lines capture the movement and volume of the pelicans in a variety of poses, demonstrating the artist’s keen observation of the natural world. These studies served as a preparatory step for more finished works and provide insight into the artist's process. The work is a fine example of animal studies and demonstrates the artist's understanding of anatomy.