Plate 55: Three Green Dragonflies with Brown Wings c. 1575 - 1580

Joris Hoefnagel's "Plate 55: Three Green Dragonflies with Brown Wings" from c. 1575-1580 exemplifies the meticulous detail of his natural history studies. This watercolor on vellum, part of his renowned "Historiae naturalis," captures the delicate beauty of dragonflies with an accuracy that mirrors the scientific observation of the time. The three dragonflies are depicted in various positions, showcasing the intricacies of their anatomy and the transparency of their wings. This work reflects the growing interest in the natural world during the Renaissance and the artistic talent of Hoefnagel in capturing the exquisite details of nature.