Bartram's Vireo or Greenlet

by John James Audubon

Enter into an exciting journey through American ornithology via the illustration of Bartram's Vireo, or Greenlet (Vireo Bartrami) by John James Audubon. Apart from its impressive natural details, this wonderful artwork is considered to be legendary among connoisseurs of fine art as it contains Audubon's famous "mystery birds"—species discovered and illustrated by the artist but whose presence in nature has not been scientifically verified ever since.

Originally published by Robert Havell Jr. in London as an engraving with watercolor hand coloring in The Birds of America (1827–1838), this composition showcases the olive-yellow color and typical dark grey crown of a bird described by Audubon as a smaller species belonging to the family of Red-eyed Vireo. This work is sure to evoke excitement either because of its captivating history, lovely botanical background, or simply owing to its association with Havell's copperplate aquatints.