Lanner Falcon on a Block - Charles Tunnicliffe

A detailed wildlife study of a hooded Lanner falcon perched on a wooden block, rendered with the precision and anatomical accuracy characteristic of Charles Tunnicliffe.

Charles Tunnicliffe remains one of the most respected British wildlife artists of the twentieth century. His work is defined by a rigorous attention to anatomical accuracy and a deep understanding of avian behaviour. This study of a Lanner falcon captures the bird in a state of quiet composure, perched upon a wooden block. The falcon wears a traditional leather hood, adorned with a decorative plume, which is typical of falconry practice.

Tunnicliffe employs a precise, controlled technique. The feathers are rendered with meticulous care, showing the subtle variations in tone and texture across the bird's wings and breast. The background consists of a textured, grassy field, painted in muted, earthy tones that allow the falcon to remain the primary focus. The wooden block is depicted with a clear sense of weight and grain, grounding the composition. The leather jesses and leash hang downwards, adding a sense of verticality to the piece.

Throughout his career, Tunnicliffe worked extensively for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and illustrated numerous books, including Henry Williamson's Tarka the Otter. His ability to observe nature without sentimentality allowed him to produce images that are both scientifically informative and aesthetically balanced. This print captures his characteristic approach, where the subject is presented with clarity and respect for its natural form. The palette is restrained, relying on natural browns, greys, and the sharp red of the falcon's hood to create visual interest. This work is a fine example of the artist's skill in combining technical precision with a keen eye for the specific details of falconry equipment and bird morphology.