Cavia before 1650

Antonio Tempesta’s “Cavia” is a detailed etching of a guinea pig, a popular subject in 17th-century natural history illustrations. Created before 1650, the artwork showcases the artist's meticulous attention to detail, capturing the animal's fur, claws, and even its whiskers. The image is both scientifically accurate and visually appealing, demonstrating the growing interest in the natural world during this period. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, providing a glimpse into the scientific and artistic practices of the early modern era.