All 471 of Audubon's original watercolours are reproduced in this book, with 95 given special full-page display accompanied by extensive ornithological and artistic information and analysis. The original watercolours, which frequently differ from the more usually seen engravings made from them, reveal Audubon's skill as an artist. Recently restored by the New York Historical Society, where they are kept, these paintings can be seen in this book in their original colours. Essays by leading art historians and curators examine Audubon as artist, naturalist and entrepreneur as well as discussing the watercolours themselves.