Rode neusbeer of Zuid-Amerikaanse coati (Nasua nasua) before 1650

This etching by Italian artist Antonio Tempesta, created before 1650, depicts a South American coati, also known as a "rode neusbeer" (red-nosed bear) in Dutch. The detailed illustration, part of a larger series, is a striking example of Tempesta's skill in capturing animal anatomy and naturalism. The coati is portrayed in profile, its long snout and bushy tail prominently featured, showcasing the animal's distinct characteristics. This piece is a testament to the flourishing of scientific illustration in the 17th century, a time when exploring the natural world was a key area of interest for artists and scientists.