This work by Jonassie Manning, celebrated for his iconic bird compositions, beautifully encapsulates a narrative of maternal protection. The mother bird’s outstretched wings form a protective canopy, her body leaning forward with quiet urgency, as if shielding her chick from unseen threats.

Central to the composition—and characteristic of Manning’s work—are the oversized, expressive eyes. The mother’s gaze is vigilant, scanning the horizon for predators, while the chick meets the viewer’s eyes directly, its wild, wide-eyed expression exuding both innocence and vulnerability. This subtle yet powerful interplay of gazes not only highlights the fragility of the young but also underscores the mother’s fierce and unwavering dedication to its survival.