Original Painting Bird Study Jays Signed Donald Watson (1918–2005) Dated 1957





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Description


Original Donald Watson (1918–2005) Signed Mixed Media Bird Study "Jays Perched on Larch Branches" | Dated 1957 | Scottish Wildlife Fine Art

Subject & Medium

A superb original mixed media painting on paper by the celebrated British wildlife artist, ornithologist and author Donald Watson (1918–2005), depicting two beautifully observed Eurasian Jays (Garrulus glandarius) perched amongst the branches of a mature larch tree.

Created in 1957, this early and highly accomplished work captures the intelligence, elegance and vibrant plumage of one of Britain's most charismatic woodland birds. Watson's remarkable ability to combine scientific observation with artistic excellence is immediately evident, resulting in a painting that is both an outstanding ornithological study and an exceptional work of British wildlife art.

Presented beneath protective glass in its original light oak frame, the artwork is ready for immediate display.

Composition & Technique

Donald Watson became internationally recognised for portraying birds within their natural environment rather than as isolated specimens, and this painting perfectly demonstrates that philosophy. The pair of Jays are shown confidently perched amongst delicately rendered larch branches, creating a harmonious relationship between subject and habitat.

The combination of drawing, watercolour and mixed media techniques enables Watson to convey remarkable texture throughout the birds' plumage while maintaining a wonderful sense of atmosphere and movement. His restrained palette beautifully contrasts with the Jays' striking cobalt-blue wing feathers, warm pink-brown body plumage and bold black facial markings.

The carefully balanced composition reflects countless hours of field observation and demonstrates the exceptional draughtsmanship that established Watson among Britain's foremost wildlife artists.

Historical Context

Painted in 1957, this work belongs to the formative years of Donald Watson's distinguished artistic career, preceding many of the publications, exhibitions and honours that would establish his international reputation.

The Eurasian Jay (*Garrulus glandarius*) is the most colourful member of the crow family and one of Britain's most intelligent woodland birds. Although widespread throughout the British Isles, Jays are naturally shy and secretive, preferring mature woodland where they are often heard before they are seen.

Renowned for collecting and burying thousands of acorns during autumn, Jays play a vital ecological role in the regeneration of Britain's native oak woodlands. Their colourful plumage, intelligence and fascinating behaviour have long made them a favourite subject amongst ornithologists, wildlife artists and collectors of natural history art.

About the Artist

Donald Watson (1918–2005) ranks amongst the most important British wildlife artists of the twentieth century.

Born in Cranleigh, Surrey, his passion for birds developed from an early age and was encouraged by the celebrated wildlife painter **Archibald Thorburn**, whose influence helped shape Watson's lifelong dedication to ornithological art.

Following his family's move to Edinburgh, he attended Edinburgh Academy where he became acquainted with **George Waterston**, later Director of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in Scotland and President of the Scottish Ornithologists' Club.

Donald and his elder brother Eric became founding members of the Scottish Ornithologists' Club in 1933 and helped establish the pioneering bird observatory on the Isle of May in the Firth of Forth.

Following studies at Oxford University and military service in India during the Second World War, Watson devoted much of his life to painting and recording Britain's birdlife with extraordinary scientific accuracy and artistic refinement.

His work was exhibited at prestigious institutions including:

• Royal Scottish Academy

• Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts

• Royal Institute

He also enjoyed successful one-man exhibitions in Edinburgh, London, Glasgow, Oxford, Dumfries, Toronto and Luxembourg.

A gifted author as well as an artist, Watson illustrated more than thirty books, including the acclaimed **Oxford Book of British Birds. His own published works include:

• Birds of Moor and Mountain (1972)

• The Hen Harrier*(1977)

• A Bird Artist in Scotland (1988)

• One Pair of Eyes (1994)

He became a founding member of the Society of Wildlife Artists, served as President of the Scottish Ornithologists' Club and was recognised internationally for his outstanding contribution to wildlife art and ornithology.

Today, original works by Donald Watson remain highly sought after by collectors of Scottish and British Fine Art, wildlife painting and natural history.

Signature

Signed by the artist and dated 1957.

Framed & Glazed

Presented beneath protective glass in its original light oak frame with hanging cord to the reverse.

Ready for immediate wall display.

Measurements

Frame

• Height: 35 cm (13.78 inches)

• Width: 47 cm (18.50 inches)

• Depth: 1.5 cm (0.59 inches)

Visible Image

• Width: 33 cm (12.99 inches)

• Height: 19.5 cm (7.68 inches)

Provenance

Originally purchased by J. M. Dickson from 47 Main Street, Dalry, the home of the artist, Donald Watson.

Following J. M. Dickson's death, the painting was bequeathed to his son, Douglas, of Leominster.

Subsequently offered for sale through Keys Fine Art Auctioneers, retaining the auction label and handwritten provenance inscription to the reverse.

Later acquired from a respected antiques dealer exhibiting at the Aintree Antiques Fair.

Professionally curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Subsequently privately loaned and exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum.

Why You'll Love It

• Original signed Donald Watson mixed media painting dated 1957

• Beautiful study of two Eurasian Jays within their natural woodland habitat

• Early example from one of Britain's foremost wildlife artists

• Exceptional combination of artistic excellence and ornithological accuracy

• Excellent documented provenance

• Retains its original period light oak frame

• Ready for immediate display

• Ideal for collectors of Scottish Fine Art, British wildlife paintings, ornithological art and natural history

• A highly decorative and investment-quality artwork by one of the twentieth century's leading bird painters

Condition Report

Offered in fine vintage condition.

The artwork is well preserved with strong colour, excellent definition and an attractive overall appearance. The painting surface is in good original order and displays beautifully beneath the protective glass.

The original light oak frame has age-related wear including small chips, scuffs and surface scratches consistent with age and careful handling. The protective glass remains in good condition.

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report.

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