This is the Red or Virginia Cardinal. For modern Americans, this crested red bird is an integral part of Christmas, and it has been chosen as the official symbol of seven states (Virginia, West Virginia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and North Carolina).
Native Americans made the cardinal the hero of their fairy tales. Some tribes believed that the wolf gave the bird its bright, distinctive colouring in gratitude for saving its sight. The Cherokee believed that the red bird was the child of the Sun. In the Christian context, both the blood of Jesus and cardinals are used as symbols of life force, and this life force is eternal. Scripture clearly states: ‘By his blood we are freed from sin, so that we may serve the living God, glorify Him and rejoice in Him forever.’ Therefore, red cardinals represent life, hope and restoration in Christianity.
Nowadays, these birds are depicted on postcards, tableware and household items. They are a true symbol of family happiness, comfort and steadfastness. After all, these small, lively cardinals do not leave their native places even in winter, and even in the cold season they stay together as a pair.
Their songs are a set of very beautiful, ringing trills, vaguely reminiscent of the song of a nightingale, for which they are often called the Virginia nightingale.

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TITLE: The Red Cardinal — a symbol of family happiness and vitality
YEAR: 2025
ARTWORK TYPE: Original Art/One of a kind
DIMENSIONS: А3 (29.5х42cm)
TECHNIQUES: Acrylic, Gold and silver potal
RELATED THEMES: Animals (Burds)
SUPPORT OR SURFACE: Canvas
FRAMING: No
CATALOGUE N: Kovalska144