Plate 17: Old World Porcupine (Hystrix) and Wild Pig c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 17: Old World Porcupine (Hystrix) and Wild Pig" is a watercolor painting by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist, dating back to the late 16th century. This exquisite miniature, a part of a larger collection of animal studies, showcases Hoefnagel's meticulous attention to detail, capturing the intricate textures and vibrant colors of the porcupine and wild pig with astonishing accuracy. The artwork's inclusion of a small tree with apples adds a touch of naturalism and a sense of the animals' environment, highlighting the artist's commitment to realistic representation. This captivating piece is a testament to the Renaissance fascination with the natural world and Hoefnagel's mastery of the art of scientific illustration.