Description “Magpie’s have been voted to be one of Australian’s favourite birds and their song is one of the most intricate and beautiful – scientists are still trying to discover the different meanings their songs convey. I couldn’t resist painting these guys – I hope you can almost hear their tune!” Helen Ansell The Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen) is one of this country’s most accomplished songbirds, with an array of complex vocalisations. It also has distinctive black and white plumage, and was named because of this similarity with the European magpie; however they are not related. Some authorities placed it in the same genus as the slightly smaller butcherbirds, and their similarity sometimes causes confusion. A common ancient ancestor has now been proven through a molecular study of their genes. A sub species, the Western Magpie, (G. tibicen dorsalis) is found in the fertile south-west corner of Western Australia and is pictured here with Acorn Banksia (Banksia prionotes), which also occurs in that region. Helen Ansell Fine Art Paper Prints are now available as giclée quality prints using Fine Art smooth paper 220gsm. Using archival ink, all have a lightfastness under glass and away from direct sunlight of greater than 200 years. Fine Art Paper Prints available in three sizes: Small – 30 x 30cm including white border of 5cm (made to fit a 30 x 30cm frame) – Actual image size is 20x20cm. Medium – 40 x 40cm including white border of 5cm – Actual image size is 30x30cm. Large – 50 x 50cm including white border of 5cm – Actual image size is 40x40cm. Helen Ansell fine art prints are proudly printed in Australia. *Please allow up to 6 business days for your purchase to be posted. Because each print is made to order just for you, we require time to print and post your beautiful Australian fine art print. To be the first to know about sales and events featuring Helen’s work contact Helen or join our mailing list!
