Blue Shrike, François Le Vaillant

Drawn from the Histoire naturelle des oiseaux d'Afrique (1799–1808), this portrait of the Blue Shrike — an African shrike with blue or blue-toned plumage, likely belonging to the Lanius group or a related blue-hued species — captures Le Vaillant's keen eye for the small predators he encountered during his expeditions to the Cape. The name 'shrike' evokes the fierce nature of these birds, which impale their prey on thorns. The blue colouring, unusual in this family, made this species especially remarkable to naturalists of the era. A hooked bill, proud bearing, vivid colours: a plate of striking beauty. Available sizes: 30×40 cm · 40×50 cm · 50×70 cm and more Print: 200 gsm textured matte paper, archival pigment inks