In the enchanting world of bird art, the piece "Smew or White Nun" by John James Audubon stands out for its striking beauty and meticulous attention to detail. This depiction of a diving duck, both graceful and majestic, invites viewers to immerse themselves in a world where nature is celebrated with rare intensity. Audubon, renowned for his dedication to the study of birds, manages to capture not only the appearance of the animal but also the very essence of its habitat. Through this artwork, he offers us a window into aquatic wildlife, an ecosystem often overlooked but of invaluable richness. Style and uniqueness of the work Audubon's style is characterized by scientific precision combined with a keen artistic sense. In "Smew or White Nun," vibrant colors and striking contrasts bring the bird to life, while the background, often delicate and nuanced, allows the creature to stand out brilliantly. The artist does not merely reproduce a simple portrait; he creates a lively scene where each feather seems to vibrate under the effect of a gentle breeze. The composition is carefully balanced, with each element designed to guide the viewer's gaze and evoke wonder. Audubon thus succeeds in establishing a dialogue between the bird and its environment, highlighting the harmony that reigns in nature. The artist and his influence John James Audubon, born in 1785 in Haiti and naturalized American, is an iconic figure in naturalist art. His passion for birds and his desire to depict them with unmatched fidelity drove him to explore North America, observing and recording each species with unprecedented detail. Audubon is not merely an illustrator; he is a pioneer who mastered the blend of science and art, influencing not only his contemporaries but also future generations of artists and naturalists. His work has contributed to raising awareness about the need to preserve biodiversity, a message that still resonates today. Through his illustrations, he managed to capture the essence of the wilderness and the delicate balance of ecosystems.