Ruddy Ducks by John James Audubon Art Print

Ruddy Ducks by John James Audubon Art PrintWe like vintage bird studies best when they come with a little abrasion. This Audubon plate has the warmth of an old library page warm brown plumage, soft cream wash, a slip of slate blue and it carries that quiet, slightly faded feeling onto the wall. A room with painted off white walls, a few books and a worn rug gains a little story. Hang it at eye level above a writing desk, a small sideboard or in a narrow hallway where you slow down to look.

putty or pale stone plaster

teal and indigo into one confident picture

Don't crowd it with other busy patterns or another bold piece nearby — give it room to breathe

and the cream border stops the whole thing shouting

next to a pantry door

in a sunny reading corner

Don't crowd it with loud tinsel or bright primary baubles — it's a quieter kind of Christmas

the elephant grounds the room

Best above the loo itself

this cityscape belonged to another kind of home — narrow Barcelona apartments above a leafy boulevard

Avoid stacking it next to other busy travel posters or strong red-orange tones — let the soft pink sky do the talking

soft pink textiles and brushed brass