Plate 28 1891 - 1898

John Gould made this lithograph plate of the birds of paradise. The image reflects Britain's expansive reach and its place in the natural order of things during the 19th century. These birds, native to New Guinea and surrounding islands, became potent symbols of the exotic "other" for Europeans. Gould's work, while seemingly scientific, played a role in shaping public perception and desire for the natural world, especially in colonial contexts. Consider the politics of representing the natural world and how it affects our understanding of the social, economic, and cultural dimensions of empire. It’s important to look at the scientific literature of the period, travelogues, and colonial records to understand the social conditions that shaped artistic production during this time. In doing so, we can better understand the complex relationship between art, science, and society.