\paperw4260 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 Egyptian artists developed a precocious sensitivity to natural forms and colors.\par
In this painting, the abundant use of green and
blue immediately conjures up an aquatic environment. Various species of birds are taking flight on the shores of a marsh, represented by a simple patch of blue, amidst papyrus plants.\par
They have probably been chased away by hunters: hunting birds wit
h nets and cages was one of the EgyptiansÆ favorite sports.\par
The painting shows a keen eye for detail in its representation of various species of animals and plants. Close examination reveals a number of realistic details: the yellow bird with a gapi
ng beak seems to be signaling the alarm; others are busy feeding their young, waiting in the nest, while the hawk in the middle is sitting on her eggs.