Two Perched and Squawking Pheasants; verso: blank c. 18th century

Editor: This is Jean-Baptiste Oudry’s "Two Perched and Squawking Pheasants." It's undated, but the medium looks like watercolor and graphite on paper. I'm curious about the somewhat muted palette he chose. What can you tell me about the production of this piece? Curator: Oudry's use of watercolor and graphite, instead of oils, speaks volumes. It suggests a study, perhaps preparatory for a larger work. Consider the cost of materials in the 18th century. Was this for a wealthy patron, or a more personal exploration of the natural world? It questions the art hierarchy of the time. Editor: That’s a perspective I hadn’t considered. Thank you.