Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "American Robin" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Birds and Flowers of the Meadow and Garden Collection "The American Robin and Crabapple Blossom" porcelain plate. Throughout the central and northern states, the return of the Robin in March is a regular topic of conversation. It means that spring is in the air, heralded by a reliable friend. Within a few days after the males appear in northern yards the females arrive. Soon the male Robins rend the air with cries as they stake out nesting territories and grapple with rivals. After laying a platform of twigs and grass, the female builds up the walls with mud and more grass. And to give the nest just the right shape, she employs her breast, making turn after turn. While her mate stands guard against invaders, the female incubates the three or four eggs for eleven to fourteen days. Apple Blossom The Apple Blossom's bright pink buds, opening to fragrant white, golden-centered flowers, are lovely to look upon. These blossoms are an unfailing foraging ground for bees, and over much of the country, a welcome symbol of advancing springtime. The five pistils and the many stamens with their yellow pollen grow in the center of the five-petaled flower. Bees and other insects carry the pollen grains from flower to flower. This transfer of pollen is necessary for the development of the fruit. Botanically, apples belong to the rose family which includes most of our showy flowering trees -- cherry, plum, peach, pear, quince, and crabapple. Image Size: 8.25 x 8.25 in. Overall Size: 16 x 18 in. Unframed. (B05405)