This impressive painting shows a barn owl in flight, depicted on a deep black velvet background. The fine feathers of the wings have been painted with precision in delicate shades of grey and white, emphasising their texture. The body is painted in a warm brown colour. The large, dark eyes fixate the viewer. The heart-shaped structure of the head makes the animal even more likeable. The painting style conveys a mixture of realism and artistic interpretation. The soft transitions and skilful use of light and shadow give the picture an almost three-dimensional quality and the dark background creates a dramatic, almost mystical atmosphere. The oil on velvet technique is very rarely used, as it is very time-consuming and difficult.