Zeven eenden 1646 - 1647

"Zeven eenden" (Seven Ducks), a 1646-1647 etching by Wenceslaus Hollar, showcases the artist's mastery of detail and naturalism. The print, housed in the Rijksmuseum, features seven ducks depicted in various poses, capturing their distinctive anatomy and plumage. Hollar's use of hatching and cross-hatching creates subtle shading and texture, bringing the ducks to life with remarkable realism. The composition is balanced, showcasing the ducks in a dynamic array that engages the viewer's attention. This work is a prime example of Hollar's animal studies, a genre he excelled in throughout his prolific career.