Goosander 1913

Archibald Thorburn created this watercolor painting, "Goosander", during a period of increased interest in ornithology and wildlife conservation at the turn of the 20th century. Thorburn, a celebrated Scottish artist, dedicated his career to depicting birds with scientific accuracy and artistic flair. "Goosander," reflects the aesthetic values of the time, where nature was idealized and often romanticized. However, it also brings forth questions about our relationship with the natural world. How do we perceive and represent animals, and what does it reveal about our own values and biases? The Goosander ducks are presented in a seemingly untouched winter landscape, yet this image was created during a time of significant environmental change due to industrialization and urbanization. Thorburn's work invites us to consider the complex interplay between humans and the environment, and our role in preserving or disrupting ecological balance.