Frieze with Eleven Birds and an Insect 1590 - 1612

Jan Collaert I created this delicate frieze with eleven birds and an insect sometime in the late 16th century, using engraving. Collaert, who was active in Antwerp, lived in a world where printed images circulated widely, influencing art, science, and culture. Look closely, and you'll see the intricate details of each bird. These carefully observed depictions reflect a growing interest in the natural world during the Renaissance. Yet, they also participate in a longer history of symbolic representation where birds were often used to convey moral or religious ideas. Think of the dove representing peace, or the eagle symbolizing power. Friezes like this would have been used in decorative schemes, perhaps adorning the walls of a wealthy home. They offered a glimpse into an idealized version of nature. The frieze invites us to reflect on our relationship with nature and the ways in which we assign meaning to the creatures around us. What do these birds mean to you?