Plate 42: Two Gray Geese with a Third Bird and Hanging Grapes c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 42: Two Gray Geese with a Third Bird and Hanging Grapes" is a watercolor by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist, created between 1575 and 1580. This detailed illustration showcases Hoefnagel's mastery of naturalism, depicting three birds with meticulous precision. The composition is framed by an oval border, showcasing the meticulous detail of a branch of grapes hanging in the center, a decorative flourish typical of Hoefnagel's work. The work is a testament to his talent for capturing the beauty of the natural world. This plate is part of his famous *Historiae Naturalis* series, a collection of meticulously rendered nature illustrations.