Plate 53: Two Common or Mediterranean Chameleons above San Sebastián, Spain c. 1575 - 1580

This detailed miniature, titled "Plate 53: Two Common or Mediterranean Chameleons above San Sebastián, Spain," is a work by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, who was active in the late 16th century. The artwork depicts two chameleons perched on a branch against a backdrop of the Spanish coastline, showcasing Hoefnagel’s talent for meticulous naturalism. This intricate drawing, executed in watercolor and gouache, was likely part of a larger manuscript devoted to the natural world. The inscription in Latin at the top of the page reflects the fascination with the chameleon's ability to change colors, a characteristic that made it a popular subject in Renaissance art and natural history.