We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art stands and recognise the creative contribution First Australians make to the art and culture of this country.
Anthony Alder / Australia 1838–1915 / Heron’s home 1895 / Oil on canvas / 102 x 82cm / Purchased 2011 with funds from the Estate of Jessica Ellis through the Queensland Art Gallery Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art
Anthony AlderHeron’s home 1895
Not Currently on Display
Anthony Alder was the most prominent taxidermist in colonial Queensland and was widely admired for the dioramas he made for the Queensland Museum. He was also an accomplished painter and, naturally, animals figured largely in his work.
Alder first exhibited oil paintings in 1876 in the Queensland Intercolonial Exhibition (subsequently known as the ‘Ekka’). His most significant year was 1895, when he received awards for Not game 1895 (Queensland Museum) and Lincoln sheep, homeward Laddie 1895 (State Library of Queensland), which showed the renowned flock at Glengallan, near Warwick.
Discussion Questions
1. How do you think Anthony Alder’s knowledge of taxidermy has influenced this painting?
2. What types of birds are regularly found around your school and neighbourhood?
Classroom Activities
1. Research the birds around your school and neighbourhood and examine their habits, origins, food sources and evolution.
2. Experiment with basic materials (paper, string, card, wire and PVA glue) to make a small sculpture that represents one of the birds in Heron’s home. Examine how Anthony Alder has captured the bird’s form and posture (e.g. head turning, body twisted).