Arkivism
Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Public domain

Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

1596 - 1610 · pen; brush; paper; deck paint; ink; pencil; watercolor (paint); chalk

From the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.

About this work

Spotting a kingfisher is difficult. Due to its shy behaviour and small size, the bird is often only perceived as a blue flash. This sheet allows us to study it in detail. Its plumage is vibrant in colour, featuring shades of blue, turquoise, and orange. The fact that the albums have changed owners only three times in four centuries has preserved these colours from fading.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s own description
Credit lineCommon kingfisher (Alcedo atthis). 1596 - 1610. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Public domain.

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