Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

The Boodt probably compiled his 'three large books' as follows: one for plants, one for animals and one for birds. In the early 19th century, however, all of the drawings were re-bound resulting in twelve albums. It is believed that this was done due to damage sustained by the bird album. Traces of this are clearly visible on this page, where the pheasant has lost its legs. A later artist restored the 'amputation' using pencil.