Charles Dessalines D'Orbigny's depiction of the toucan, specifically classified under the genus Ramphastos, is a notable illustration from his comprehensive work, the Dictionnaire Universel d'Histoire Naturelle (Universal Dictionary of Natural History), which was compiled in the mid-19th century. This illustration, like many others in the collection, showcases D'Orbigny's commitment to scientific accuracy combined with artistic finesse.
The illustration features the toucan in a typical pose, emphasizing its distinctive large bill and colorful feathers achieving both precision in the depiction of the bird's anatomical features and richness in its coloration, which is vital for accurately representing the vibrant plumage of the toucan. The attention to detail in the texture of the feathers and the realistic rendering of its eyes and posture reflect D'Orbigny’s scientific rigor and artistic skill.
