Plate 58: African Gray Parrot, Indian Ring-Necked Parrot, and a Third Parrot c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 58: African Gray Parrot, Indian Ring-Necked Parrot, and a Third Parrot" is a watercolor on vellum by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, created between 1575-1580. The illustration showcases the meticulous detail and vibrant colors typical of Hoefnagel's natural history work. Three parrots, each uniquely colored and posed, perch on a tree branch. The African Gray Parrot, perched below, is depicted in its distinct grey and red plumage, while the Indian Ring-Necked Parrot stands out with its vibrant turquoise and green feathers. This captivating artwork offers a glimpse into the exotic creatures that fascinated Europeans in the 16th century, exemplifying the flourishing of scientific illustration during this period.