Koningsgier (Sarcoramphus papa) 1758

This is a watercolor of a King Vulture, made by Aert Schouman in the 18th century. The bird dominates the composition, its imposing figure set against a soft, distant landscape. Schouman masterfully uses watercolor to define the vulture's contrasting textures. Observe how the smooth, almost translucent washes of color give way to the rough texture of the bird's plumage, achieved through short, deliberate strokes. The artist’s structural approach emphasizes the stark contrast between the vulture's vibrant head and the muted tones of its body. The head, rendered in striking reds, yellows, and oranges, stands out. This vivid color scheme creates a focal point, underscoring the bird's regal, almost unsettling presence. Schouman's strategic placement of the vulture, slightly off-center, and its direct gaze challenge conventional portraiture. The painting presents a creature both natural and strangely imposing. It invites contemplation of how we assign meaning to the natural world through art.