Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "Ruby-throated Hummingbird Taking Nectar" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 29c Ruby-throated Hummingbird stamp issued June 15, 1992. "No sooner has the returned sun again introduced the vernal season, and caused millions of plants to expand their leaves and blossoms to the genial beams, than the little Hummingbird is seen advancing of fairy wings, carefully visiting every opening flower cup. Its gorgeous throat in beauty and brilliance baffles all competition. Now it goes to a fiery hue, and again is changed to the deepest velvety black." Thus wrote the great naturalist, John James Audubon, of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Audubon -- like many before and since -- was entranced by the little flying jewel. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the best known of North America's Hummingbirds, for it is found regularly in eastern North America. Ranging from Panama to Nova Scotia, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird also has one of the most impressive migrations of the hummingbirds, although not quite as great as that of the Rufous Hummingbird. However, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird must cross the vast expanse of the Gulf of Mexico in one shot, an astounding accomplishment for such a small bird. Yet, with enough fat reserves, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is able to make the journey without mishap. Image Size: 19.75 x 17.5 in. Overall Size: 21 x 18.75 in. Unframed. (B13682)