Print c. 17th century

This print, now at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, was created by Francis Place sometime in the late 17th or early 18th century. Place made this print at a time when European naturalists and artists were deeply involved in documenting and classifying the natural world. The detailed rendering of various birds in the print reflects a growing scientific interest in ornithology, yet, the artist doesn't quite manage to capture these birds as living creatures. Consider the cultural context: peacocks, here prominently displayed, were often associated with wealth and status, adorning the gardens of the elite. This print might be seen as both a study of nature and a reflection of social hierarchies, where the display of exotic creatures symbolized power and affluence. Although this artwork appears to be a harmless study of nature, it is inextricably linked to issues of class and the human desire for control over the natural world. This tension between observation and ownership shapes the emotional impact and enduring relevance of the print.