Magpies' Treasure

Magpies' Treasure is a painting of two magpies on their nest surrounded by their collection of treasures. An original watercolour painting on 425gsm paper, size 435mm x 324mm A3 signed poster prints - size 420mm x 297mm, the closest size to the actual painting - remember, P&P is included in the price Greetings cards coming in mid April 2026 Magpies' Treasure is a painting about the value of things Magpies’ Treasure explores what we value. It shows two birds in a nest surrounded by “precious” objects like gold and jewellery - things humans admire. I’ve also added treasures I value more: natural remnants of life, such as amber, a snail operculum, and fossilised coral. But for the magpies, the true treasure is their eggs; everything else is just trinkets. Myth-buster! It's NOT TRUE that magpies are attracted to shiny things. Studies show they’re cautious around unfamiliar objects. Their curiosity and intelligence may have inspired the myth, which still lives on in folklore… and in this painting. Magpies and folklore The European magpie (Pica pica) is a species of crow. I love all crows, but magpies have a special place in my heart with their handsome iridescent plumage and glossy, long tails. Two birds have been busy nesting in the trees opposite our house, and it's that pair that have inspired this painting. Folklore suggests that they are a bird of ill omen, but this is clearly nonsense. One magpie is always a joy, two is even better - especially when I can see them every day. There are many fascinating collective nouns for magpies: tidings, mischief, charm, flock, gulp, murder, tittering, conventicle, tribe or congregation. Mackenzie Crook's Detectorists and Small Prophets Keen-eyed fans of screenwriter Mackenzie Crook (as I am) will enjoy spotting a number of objects from his work in my painting. From 'Detectorists', I've chosen a toy car, a ringpull, a 1970s cycling proficiency badge and a Henry VI hammered silver groat. And from 'Small Prophets', a gold ring, a plain undecorated button, an amethyst, a brass key, and a pen nib. The magpie is a significant symbol in the BBC TV series "Detectorists" - of which I am a huge fan. At the end of episode 1, series 3, is this magical 4 minute sequence featuring a a reworking of the traditional Magpie Song by The Unthanks. Other Magpie paintings Magpies' Treasure isn't my first painting of these marvellous birds. Have a look at my other magpie-inspired works: Magpie Song She Whispered her name was Joy a painting of a magpie with Springtime fairies A life-size paper mache magpie British Crows For Detectorists fans, here are some cards you might enjoy