Susanna and the Elders 1865

William Holbrook Beard's 1865 painting *Susanna and the Elders* features two owls perched on a branch, seemingly observing a swan swimming in a nearby pond. The scene depicts a peaceful natural setting, with lush vegetation and a clear blue sky. Beard's style is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, creating a realistic and almost photographic portrayal of nature. The owls' intense gaze and the swan's graceful posture add a sense of both mystery and beauty to the composition. This piece, like much of Beard's work, demonstrates his talent for depicting animals with personality and expressiveness.