Bird and Butterfly, 2019

Bird and Butterfly, 2019 is part of Dovecot Patterns, a selection of tapestries created by Dovecot weavers which evokes a cultural conversation through pattern that reaches back thousands of years. Weaver Rudi Richardson took inspiration for this work from an illustration by ornithologist and artist John James Audubon in his ground-breaking study Birds of America printed in the 19th century.

Audubon’s illustration was translated into a repeating pattern on printed cotton as a furnishing fabric around 1831. The fabric was produced in different colourways, one of which is similar to this tapestry rendering. The journey of this image from illustration, to furnishing fabric, to tapestry is an example of the evolution of patterns and changing interpretations.

This tapestry is currently on display in the North Gallery at Dovecot Studios and has been sold.

To enquire about other works available for purchase please email susanmcateer@dovecotstudios.com or call 0131 550 3660.