Buffel Headed Duck American Green Winged Teal And Hooded Merganser 1922

Archibald Thorburn painted this study of ducks, Buffel Headed Duck American Green Winged Teal And Hooded Merganser, in watercolour, at some point in his life. The way the light falls across the water, a wash of subtle greys and greens, really sets the scene for a quiet, contemplative moment. You can feel the stillness of the water, can’t you? Look at the nearest duck, how it sits, seemingly lost in thought. It’s the kind of rendering that comes from close observation, an attention to detail that I appreciate. There’s a calmness in the application of the paint, the colours are muted and blend seamlessly, mirroring the tranquility of the scene. When I look at this, I’m reminded of Winslow Homer, of his ability to capture nature in watercolour, and of the ongoing conversation between artists across time. Ultimately, it’s not about definitive meanings, but about embracing the multiple interpretations that art allows.