Malay Argus Pheasant 1918 - 1922

Archibald Thorburn painted this Malay Argus Pheasant and, for me, it's all about the texture of the feathers – you can almost feel the softness! It's like he built up the image with countless tiny brushstrokes, a real labour of love. Looking closely, I'm struck by how the browns and blues intermingle, creating a sense of depth and movement, even in the stillest parts. The colours aren't flat; they shift and shimmer, drawing you into the bird's world. See the way he’s suggested the pattern of the plumage with dark dots, each one perfectly placed? It reminds me a little of Audubon, but with a delicate, almost whimsical touch. Thorburn’s work is a testament to the beauty of detail, and a reminder that even the most meticulous art can still feel spontaneous and alive.