Hoopoe Parent with Youngs (original painting)

Hoopoe (Upupa epops) with 3 young nestling in a tree cavity, by Paula Kuitenbrouwer, Dutch artist and owner of www.paulakuitenbrouwer.com.

The hoopoe, a strikingly beautiful creature, is regarded by many as the ruler of the avian kingdom. With its proud carriage, distinctive black and white plumage and striking crest, it conveys a regal air.

Egyptian Pharaohs thought hoopoes were sacred. Minoan Crete's temples depicted this bird on wall paintings. The hoopoe is the national bird of Israel.

I have seen them in Italy and I joyed watching these shy birds. 

The painting will be carefully shipped. 

A lovely gift for a bird watcher. The hoopoe is a garden visitor in parts of Europe and Asia. People who enjoy wildlife-friendly gardens or bird-friendly spaces might love an artwork celebrating this shy bird. 

Also for those who favour Egyptian symbolism, as this bird was sacred to the gods and associated with royalty and protection (often depicted in tomb paintings).

In islamic tradition the hoopoe is the messenger bird of King Solomon in the Quran (Surah Al-Naml).

In European folklore the hoopoe symbolizes good luck, virtue, or a connection to the divine.

In Persian & Middle Eastern art the hoopoe is featured in miniatures and poetry (e.g., the Hoopoe is a guide in The Conference of the Birds by Attar).

Buying this artwork does not transfer copyright (copyright Paula Kuitenbrouwer).

Paula is the artist and owner of www.paulakuitenbrouwer.com