Turkey and Other Birds among Classical Ruins in a Park

Aert Schouman did not paint only exotic birds. In this drawing he chose to depict true Dutch specimens, including the white Muscovy duck, the black tufted hen and the brown turkey. He situated them in appropriate surroundings, a man-made park. In the 18th century, these scenes were very popular as wall paintings in domestic rooms or galleries. This watercolour possibly served as the design for such a painted decoration.