Acht dieren 1547 - 1577

"Acht dieren" (Eight Animals) is a 16th-century engraving by the Italian artist Enea Vico, showcasing his detailed and lifelike representation of exotic animals. The artwork, housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts elephants, camels, and a giraffe. Vico's masterful use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of volume and depth, allowing viewers to almost feel the texture of the animals' skin. The engraving is an example of the flourishing of natural history illustration during the Renaissance, captivating audiences with its scientific accuracy and artistic beauty.