Title: Eagle Head
Artist: Attributed to William Bartram (American, 1739-1823)
Date: Late 18th century
Medium: Pen and ink on laid paper
Dimensions: 13.5 * 15.875 in. (framed)

This compelling drawing of an eagle's head, rendered in delicate pen and ink on laid paper, is here attributed to William Bartram, the esteemed American naturalist, ornithologist, and artist whose late 18th-century work helped define the early scientific and aesthetic documentation of the American wilderness. The drawing exemplifies Bartram's distinctive synthesis of scientific observation and artistic expression, with precise anatomical attention given to the curve of the beak, the contour of the feathers, and the raptor's penetrating gaze.

Bartram's known interest in birds of prey-especially the bald eagle, which he admired both for its symbolic and ecological importance-makes this rendering particularly resonant. The drawing's formal qualities, such as its rhythmic cross-hatching and expressive modeling of form, align closely with other known works and field sketches by Bartram, whose influence extended to later naturalists including Alexander Wilson and John James Audubon.

Though unsigned, the drawing's technique, paper type, and subject matter strongly suggest Bartram's authorship or his direct circle, and it may have been intended either as a study for a larger composition or as part of a naturalist's field portfolio. Surviving examples of Bartram's field drawings are exceedingly rare, making this an especially valuable and evocative artifact from the early history of American scientific art.

Provenance: Formerly held in the General Electric Art Program Collection.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Drawing with some areas of paper wrinkling, frame does show wear commensurate with age and use.

Origin:
United States

Materials & Techniques:
Graphite, Paper

Details:
Frame Type: Framed
Country of Origin: United States
Art Subjects: Animals
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Drawing with some areas of paper wrinkling, frame does show wear commensurate with age and use.