Long-tailed Duck (Harelda Hyemalis), Young Male in Winter
~ 1828
About this artwork
This is a detailed natural history illustration depicting a long-tailed duck, identified by its scientific name Harelda hyemalis and the Swedish name Alfågel. The inscription specifies it as a young male in winter plumage, standing on a rocky outcrop with water in the foreground. The illustration bears the name A. Börtzell, likely the lithographer, and 'B.H. g del.', possibly indicating the original draughtsman.
Did you know?
Long-tailed ducks are renowned for their impressive diving capabilities, often foraging in deep arctic waters for mollusks and crustaceans. Males possess an exceptionally long tail, which gives the species its common name. These ducks undertake extensive migrations, breeding in the Arctic tundra during summer and wintering along more temperate coastal areas across the Northern Hemisphere.
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
Long-tailed Duck (Harelda Hyemalis), Young Male in Winter
Wihelm Wright, ~ 1828