A Mandarin drake 

This watercolor painting by Eugène Delacroix depicts a Mandarin drake, a species of duck known for its vibrant plumage. The drake's intricate patterns of green, blue, and brown feathers are beautifully captured in Delacroix's characteristically expressive style. The artist's keen eye for detail is evident in the subtle nuances of color and texture, creating a sense of life and movement. This small-scale work, housed in the Courtauld Institute of Art, showcases Delacroix's versatility as an artist, demonstrating his ability to master a range of subjects beyond his more famous historical and literary themes.