Once the deep green enters, the whole room stops apologising. Audubon's two goosanders, one preening on a rock and one gliding past a low waterfall, bring a quiet heritage weight to a wall that has been sitting too neutral. The cream background keeps things light, while the dark feathers and warm brown crest give your eye somewhere to land. Hang it in a hallway, study or country dining room, above a sideboard or a run of low shelving. It sits well with painted woodwork, antique furniture, aged leather and linen. Avoid pairing it with very glossy modern art or bright pop colour — this piece wants old wood, soft lamplight and a bit of patina around it.