Great Horned Owl

by Robert Bateman

Great Horned Owl

Robert Bateman
Etching
7.75 × 8.75 in

Artwork Description

This is an intaglio of a Great Horned Owl.
Intaglio is a printmaking technique in which images are incised or engraved into a surface, typically a metal plate, resulting in a design that is recessed below the surface. The process involves using tools such as burins or etching needles to create lines or textures on the plate. Ink is then applied to the entire surface, and the excess is wiped away, leaving ink only in the incised areas. When pressed onto paper, the ink from these grooves transfers to create a detailed image. Intaglio encompasses various techniques, including engraving, etching, and aquatint, and has been widely used for producing fine art prints, illustrations, and currency due to its ability to capture intricate details and tonal variations.
The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) is a powerful and adaptable bird of prey known for its distinctive tufted “horns” and striking yellow eyes. This versatile predator can be found in a variety of habitats across the Americas, feeding on a diverse diet that includes mammals, birds, and reptiles.