Plate 40: Salmon, Trout, and Freshwater(?) Fish c. 1575 - 1580

This detailed watercolor, "Plate 40: Salmon, Trout, and Freshwater(?) Fish" by Joris Hoefnagel, depicts various species of fish in a naturalistic setting. Created around 1575-1580, the artwork showcases Hoefnagel's meticulous observation of nature, rendering each fish with astonishing accuracy. The composition is framed within an oval, highlighting the aquatic life within. The delicate brushstrokes and vibrant colors lend a sense of life and movement to the scene, exemplifying Hoefnagel's mastery of the miniature painting style. The artwork is part of a larger series known as the "Archduke's Album", showcasing the diverse wonders of the natural world.