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John James Audubon

Born in Les Cayes, Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), John James Audubon (1785–1851) was one of the most important figures in American natural history and art. Renowned for his extraordinary skill in depicting birds, he combined scientific observation with artistic flair to create some of the most influential illustrations of North American wildlife. At the age of five, he was sent to France and later adopted by his father's wife. Educated in mathematics, geography, music and fencing, Audubon showed early promise in drawing and a deep fascination with the natural world. His formative years in France laid the groundwork for a lifelong passion for studying and depicting wildlife.

In the early 1800s, Audubon moved to the United States, where he embarked on an ambitious project to document and illustrate every bird species in North America. His most renowned work, The Birds of America, showcases his meticulous attention to detail and artistic skill. Audubon's commitment to this endeavour led him to travel extensively across the continent, observing and capturing the diverse avian life in their natural habitats.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Audubon was a dedicated naturalist. He identified 25 bird species previously unknown to European scientists and contributed valuable ecological insights based on his close observations of birds in the wild. His work not only enriched scientific understanding but also ignited public interest in ornithology and conservation.

Audubon's legacy extends beyond his art and scientific contributions. His name has become synonymous with bird conservation, and his illustrations continue to inspire admiration for their beauty and precision. Today, his works are housed in major institutions, and his influence endures in both the fields of art and natural history.

AUDUBON, John James (1785-1851). The Birds of America; from Original Drawings . London: Published by the Author, 1827-1838.

The Quadrupeds of North America

John James Audubon, 1845