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ERNST HAECKEL: ART FORMS IN NATURE
TROCHILDAE: Kolibris (Chordata: Aves)
These male hummingbirds were sent as preserved specimens to Haeckel from various parts of the world, primarily from South America where they were called "the gems of Brazil." The process of preserving specimens may destroy or distort parts of the body while feathers retain their color and intensity for long periods of time. Thus, while some of the anatomical details are slightly inaccurate, the feathers are flawless. Haeckel was entranced by the spectrum of color and design: he also tried to capture the effect of sunlight on the iridescent sheen of the feathers. These tiny, fluttering creatures strut their charms with great theatrical flair.
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Curated by Ann Weissmann, Exhibitions Curator MBLWHOI Library
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