Watercolour Painting Birds Jays Signed Donald Watson
Original Donald Watson (1918–2005) Signed Mixed Media Jays on Larch 1957 | Scottish Wildlife Art
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🐦 Subject & Medium
A superb original mixed media painting on paper by celebrated British wildlife artist, ornithologist and author Donald Watson (1918–2005), depicting two beautifully observed Eurasian Jays (Garrulus glandarius) perched amongst the branches of a mature larch tree.
Painted in 1957, this early work captures the intelligence, elegance and vibrant plumage of one of Britain's most charismatic woodland birds. Watson's remarkable ability to combine scientific observation with artistic excellence makes this both an exceptional ornithological study and an outstanding work of British wildlife art.
Presented beneath protective glass in its original light oak frame, ready for immediate display.
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🎨 Composition & Technique
Donald Watson was renowned for portraying birds within their natural habitat rather than as isolated subjects, and this painting perfectly demonstrates that philosophy.
Executed in mixed media with watercolour, the delicately rendered larch branches provide a natural setting while subtle brushwork conveys texture, movement and atmosphere. Brilliant cobalt-blue wing feathers contrast beautifully with warm pink-brown plumage and bold black facial markings, showcasing Watson's exceptional draughtsmanship and years of field observation.
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📜 Historical Context
Created in 1957, this early work predates many of the exhibitions, publications and honours that established Donald Watson as one of Britain's foremost wildlife artists.
The Eurasian Jay is Britain's most colourful member of the crow family, renowned for its intelligence and woodland habits. Famous for burying thousands of acorns each autumn, Jays play an important role in the regeneration of native oak forests and have long inspired wildlife artists and ornithologists alike.
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👨🎨 About the Artist
Donald Watson (1918–2005) ranks amongst the finest British wildlife artists of the twentieth century.
Encouraged by the renowned bird painter Archibald Thorburn, Watson later became a founding member of the Scottish Ornithologists' Club and helped establish the Isle of May Bird Observatory.
Following studies at Oxford University and military service in India during the Second World War, he devoted his career to painting Britain's birdlife with remarkable scientific accuracy and artistic refinement.
His work was exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy, Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts and the Royal Institute, alongside successful solo exhibitions in Edinburgh, London, Glasgow, Oxford, Dumfries, Toronto and Luxembourg.
He illustrated more than thirty books, including The Oxford Book of British Birds, and authored:
• Birds of Moor and Mountain (1972)
• The Hen Harrier (1977)
• A Bird Artist in Scotland (1988)
• One Pair of Eyes (1994)
Watson also served as President of the Scottish Ornithologists' Club and was a founding member of the Society of Wildlife Artists.
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✍️ Signature
Signed by the artist and dated 1957.
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🖼️ Framed & Glazed
Presented beneath protective glass in its original light oak frame with hanging cord to the reverse.
Ready for immediate wall display.
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📏 Measurements
Frame
• Height: 35 cm (13.78 inches)
• Width: 47 cm (18.50 inches)
• Depth: 1.5 cm (0.59 inches)
Visible Image
• Width: 33 cm (12.99 inches)
• Height: 19.5 cm (7.68 inches)
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🏛️ Provenance
Originally purchased by J. M. Dickson directly from Donald Watson at his home, 47 Main Street, Dalry.
Following J. M. Dickson's death, the painting passed by descent to his son, Douglas of Leominster.
It was subsequently offered through Keys Fine Art Auctioneers, retaining both the original auction label and handwritten provenance inscription to the reverse.
Later acquired from a respected antiques dealer exhibiting at the Aintree Antiques Fair.
Professionally curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Subsequently privately loaned and exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum.
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✨ Why You'll Love It
• Original signed Donald Watson mixed media painting
• Dated 1957
• Beautiful study of two Eurasian Jays
• Early work by one of Britain's foremost wildlife artists
• Excellent documented provenance
• Original period light oak frame
• Ready for immediate display
• Ideal for collectors of Scottish Fine Art, British wildlife art and natural history
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Offered in fine vintage condition.
The artwork is well preserved with strong colour, excellent definition and an attractive overall appearance beneath protective glass.
The original light oak frame displays minor age-related scuffs, scratches and small chips consistent with age and careful handling. The protective glass remains in good condition.
Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report.
Ready for immediate display.
