Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish" is a meticulously detailed watercolor by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, created between 1575 and 1580. The illustration depicts a walrus, a nine-legged octopus, and two varieties of ocean sunfish, each rendered with remarkable accuracy and scientific precision. This work is part of a larger collection of natural history illustrations, showcasing Hoefnagel's keen eye for detail and his deep fascination with the natural world. The artwork is a testament to the burgeoning scientific curiosity of the Renaissance period.