Plate 7: Swallowtail Butterfly c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 7: Swallowtail Butterfly" is a watercolor painting by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist known for his meticulous depictions of natural history. Created between 1575 and 1580, the artwork features a single swallowtail butterfly rendered with incredible detail, showcasing Hoefnagel's masterful use of color and form. The butterfly is depicted against a plain background, allowing its intricate patterns and delicate wings to be the focal point. This work is characteristic of Hoefnagel's "naturalistic" style, reflecting a growing interest in scientific observation during the Renaissance.