Plate 12: Pair of Wood Grouse with a Melon and Pears c. 1575 - 1580

This detailed watercolor painting by Joris Hoefnagel from the late 16th century depicts a pair of wood grouse, a melon and a pear. The work is one of many plates from a larger series of illustrations showcasing a wide array of natural subjects. The realistic style of the artwork is typical of the Dutch tradition of naturalism, placing emphasis on accurate depictions of the natural world. The use of watercolor and gouache creates a vivid and lifelike representation of the birds. This particular plate showcases the meticulous observation and skill of Hoefnagel, making it a captivating example of 16th-century natural history art.