Zeebisschop 1562

"Zeebisschop," a 1562 woodcut by François Desprez, depicts a fantastical creature resembling a fish with a human-like head and a cloak. The intricate detail of the scales and the creature's anatomy, combined with the surrounding text, suggests a depiction of a sea monster or mythical beast. Desprez's work is a prime example of the popular woodcuts produced in the 16th century, which were often used to illustrate books, pamphlets, and other printed materials. The small size of the artwork, measuring only 146 mm by 85 mm, highlights the delicate and precise nature of woodcut printing during this period. This particular piece reflects a fascination with the unknown, highlighting the imaginative artistic explorations of the time.