Avian Album c. 18th century

Curator: We’re looking at Jean-Baptiste Oudry's "Avian Album," residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. The album is approximately 44 by 35 centimeters. Editor: It looks aged; the cover seems worn, marked with the passage of time. The color palette is muted, almost monochromatic, dominated by earthy tones. Curator: Indeed. Oudry was a pivotal figure in the transition of French art from the late Baroque to the Rococo. His paintings gained prominence as French aristocracy were interested in the natural world. Editor: It's interesting how this seemingly simple album cover already hints at the contents within. One can imagine Oudry’s illustrations inside and observe the textures and the materiality of the album itself. I wonder what that means for its semiotic impact? Curator: Absolutely. This album provides a tangible connection to the 18th century, reflecting the intersection of art, science, and aristocratic patronage during that era. Editor: It's more than just an album. It’s a historical and aesthetic experience.