This artwork of a matuku (bittern) was done by Richard Taylor around the mid-1800s. The title is 'The bittern at rest', but the image actually shows the bird trying to conceal itself. The matuku has a loud booming call – traditionally linked with people in mourning.
Using this item
Alexander Turnbull Library
Reference:
E-296-q-055-4
Drawing by Richard Taylor
Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.
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