In Greek, the word is ornis; in Latin it is avis; and in Hebrew it is mopeth. When translated into English these words each have the same two meanings: “bird” and “omen.” The association of birds with prophecy is a primeval one and can be seen in augury, the ancient art of predicting the future by observing the behavior of birds.

In "Little Secrets," a woman is visited by a small bird with a secret trapped in its beak. Whether the woman has just confided in the bird, or is hoping to hear its news, one thing is clear: this bird is not telling.

The subjects of Cassandra Barney’s compelling portraits are instantly recognizable for their grace and their enigmatic gazes and the woman in this painting is no exception. This is one Little Secret you will love to keep.