Plate 48: Wood Grouse, Rail, and Curlew with Hazelnuts and Figs c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 48: Wood Grouse, Rail, and Curlew with Hazelnuts and Figs" is a meticulously detailed watercolor painting by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, created between 1575 and 1580. This artwork showcases Hoefnagel's mastery of naturalism, depicting a variety of birds in a precise and lifelike manner. The composition is framed by an oval, highlighting the intricate details of the feathered subjects. The inclusion of hazelnuts and figs in the background adds a touch of realism and suggests the birds' natural habitat. This piece is a testament to Hoefnagel's skill as a miniaturist and his keen interest in the natural world, making it a captivating example of 16th-century natural history illustration.