Lot 116: PIETER HOLSTEYN THE YOUNGER HAARLEM CIRCA 1614 - 1687

THE PROPERTY OF KUNSTHANDEL P. DE BOER

A GREEN PARAKEET

measurements note
12 5/8 by 8 1/4 in.; 32 by 21 cm.

signed in monogram lower right PH fe.

watercolor on paper

NOTE

The artist's representation of this colorful bird could have been based on direct observation. Some species of parakeets appeared in the Netherlands as early as 1602 through the intermediary of the Dutch trading companies. We know from contemporary accounts that parrots carried a definite appeal in 17th century Netherlands, especially in Gouda where they were featured on painted tiles from the middle of the 17th century onwards. However, Holsteyn's depiction does not faithfully render a specific species of parrot, but rather a hybrid bird that assumes various characteristics from the handful of different breeds that the painter might have seen in or around Haarlem. Nonetheless, this picture is an important record of the way in which these colorful birds were perceived, as Holsteyn paid particular attention to the features most specific to parakeets, such as the scale-like feather pattern and the distinctive beak and claws.