Vos (Vulpes vulpes) 1790 - 1814

Jacob Goethals’s “Vos (Vulpes vulpes)” (1790-1814) is a watercolor depiction of a red fox in a natural setting. The fox is positioned centrally, facing the viewer with a slightly startled expression, highlighting its detailed fur. The composition, with the fox on a rocky outcrop and a tree behind, creates a sense of depth and realism in this classic example of natural history illustration. Goethals, a Dutch artist, was known for his precise depictions of animals and plants. The image’s scientific detail would have been invaluable to naturalists and collectors of the time, and the work’s enduring appeal continues to fascinate art lovers today.