Ivan Kozlov (Russian, B. 1937) "Red-Crested Pochard" Signed and dated ('90) lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on a First Day Cover for a Russia Duck stamp issued July 1, 1990. The Red-crested Pochard is a good-looking European duck, about the same size as the Mallard. Like all diving ducks, the Red-crested Pochard prefers to be out in the middle of its home waters and therefore is very easy to observe, though sometimes only through field glasses at great distances. In fact, this duck is now found solely on large, open expanses of water and will approach the banks only at nesting time, when it searches for the camouflaging thickets of reeds where it hides its nest. The handsome drake can be recognized by its vivid orangish-red bill and big red head, black chest and brown wings with orange and white markings. The plump brown hen sports crisp white cheek patches. This waterfowl breeds extensively in Eurasia and its playful courtship antics delight duck enthusiasts in the USSR, making this bird the perfect choice to grace a Soviet postage stamp. Ivan Koslov's beautiful stamp design and handsome cachet art faithfully record the essence of this lively bird. The cachet features a mated pair of Red-crested Pochards descending toward the marshy banks of their Soviet lake habitat. These birds' powerful wings are a focal point of the picture and the hen's legs, extended for a landing, are clearly set far back on her body, attesting to the fact that the Red-crest is a diving duck. The position of the legs makes the duck awkward on land, but contributes greatly to its maneuverability under the water. Image Size: 6.75 x 5.75 in. Overall Size: 9.75 x 7.75 in. Unframed. (B12461) See More