Male Northern Cardinal on a Ledge
Drawing on paper/cardstock, landscape orientation • Signed 'J. Patriz' (or similar phonetic interpretation). Likely a regional North American wildlife illustrator or hobbyist artist
Style & Movement
Naturalist Illustration / Realism; evocative of decorative wildlife art frequently found in greeting card or calendar illustration
Medium & Technique
Mixed media involving colored pencil and likely watercolor wash or ink; features cross-hatching for texture on feathers and light tonal blending on the foliage
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 5 x 7 inches (Standard postcard or small note card size), landscape format
Subject Description
A profile view of a male Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) perched on a thin branch with green leaves. The bird is rendered in vibrant reds with a characteristic black facial mask. The composition is centralized with a tan or sepia-toned 'matted' border effect integrated into the paper
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paper appears flat with no major creases, though there is minor yellowing consistent with age or the intentional sepia aesthetic of the stock
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$15 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired as a decorative piece, gift, or from a local craft/art fair. No visible gallery labels or previous auction stamps
Art Historical Significance
Minor art historical significance; representative of the popular demand for avian and naturalist art in the American decorative tradition during the late 20th century
Notable Features
Distinctive printed or painted border framing the subject; legible artist signature 'J. Patriz' located near the lower right of the branch
Condition Issues
Slight surface acidity typical of non-archival cardstock; minor darkening around the edges of the border
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend framing with UV-protective glass and acid-free matting to prevent further yellowing and fading of the colored pencil pigments