Hudson's Bay Lemming

John Woodhouse Audubon

Created:
Movement:
1846
Realism
key Notes:
Naturalistic depiction; Scientific illustration.
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Dimensions:
14 x 22 in. (35.6 x 55.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Hudson's Bay Lemming" is a painting created by John Woodhouse Audubon in 1846. The work is part of Audubon's larger project to document North American wildlife. John Woodhouse Audubon was the son of the renowned ornithologist John James Audubon. The painting depicts the Hudson's Bay lemming, a small rodent native to the Arctic regions of North America. The artwork is characterized by its detailed representation and naturalistic style, reflecting Audubon's commitment to scientific accuracy. The specific circumstances surrounding the creation of this painting are not well-documented. The painting is housed in a private collection, and its provenance is not extensively recorded. Audubon's contributions to natural history and art have been recognized for their significance in the field of ornithology and wildlife illustration.

Description of the work:

"Hudson's Bay Lemming," created by John Woodhouse Audubon in 1846, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a lemming in a naturalistic setting. The composition features the lemming in a dynamic pose, showcasing its fur texture and anatomical details. The background includes a subtle depiction of the lemming's habitat, characterized by muted earth tones and soft brushwork that enhances the sense of realism. The use of light and shadow adds depth to the scene, highlighting the lemming's form against the surrounding environment. Audubon's attention to detail is evident in the meticulous rendering of the animal's features, contributing to the overall lifelike quality of the work. The painting exemplifies Audubon's commitment to portraying wildlife with accuracy and respect for their natural surroundings.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Hudson's Bay Lemming