Birds 4

Birds 4 consist of tessellations in which the outline consists of both geometric and curved lines, in the form of arcs. 

A minimum of two colours is required for map-colouring. Notably, the colouration scheme is more complex than usual, as it presents variations within this two-colour minimum. Each bird features a primary colour for its head and body, while the wings and beak adopt a secondary shade. Given that the motif appears in two orientations, this necessitates the use of two distinct colour pairings: orange and blue for the body, and red and green for the wings. These combinations were carefully selected as complementary colours, offering maximum contrast on the colour wheel. Despite featuring four colours, the deliberate selection ensures each motif remains clearly distinguishable. 

Although the bird may seem somewhat contrived or overly simplistic, it excels in creating an effective tessellation within its constraints. In fact, its very simplicity strengthens its appeal, proving that intricate outlines are not essential for a high-quality tessellation.
Colouration: A minimum of two colours is required for effective map colouring. This particular scheme embraces a monochrome approach, using two contrasting shades of blue—one light, one dark—whilst still ensuring sufficient contrast to distinguish adjacent motifs. 

Nos. 3–5 are closely interrelated, each representing a variation on a theme. The geometric outline remains consistent throughout, with the distinguishing factor being the curved arc of the wing. This arc appears in two distinct forms in Nos. 3 and 4, creating unique yet similar tessellations. No. 5 integrates both variations.

Colouration. A minimum of three colours is necessary for map-colouring. However, to highlight the four orientations of the motif, four colours are used instead. Given the inherent symmetry, three would be visually inelegant, making four the preferred choice. 

For comments pertaining to this and its colouration, see No. 3. 

For comments pertaining to this and its colouration, see No.3. 

4 June 2025. Revised text from Classic Sites