The Birds of America

This groundbreaking work consists of hand-colored, life-size prints, made from engraved plates measuring around 39 by 26 inches (99 by 66 cm). This is the first of seven volumes. Audubon identified 25 new species over his career and is known for portraying animals in their real-life habitats. In contrast to other wildlife artists of his day, Audubon painted animals as if caught in motion—particularly feeding, hunting or escaping predators. The seven-volume Birds of America includes images of six now-extinct birds: the Carolina parakeet, passenger pigeon, Labrador duck, great auk, Esquimaux curlew and pinnated grouse. Nearly all later ornithological works were inspired by Audubon's artistry and high standards, and Birds of America is considered one of the greatest examples of book art. Numerous parks, towns and other places are named in his honor.