Verschillend gevogelte en een kalkoen 1655 - 1718

This detailed etching of fowl is by Jan Griffier the Elder, created around the turn of the 18th century. Griffier, born in Amsterdam, later settled in London, and his landscapes and animal studies reflect the influence of both Dutch and English artistic traditions. This piece offers a glimpse into the agricultural landscape and the relationship between humans and animals during that era. Note the variety of birds: turkeys, chickens, and other fowl, each rendered with attention to detail. These animals are not merely decorative; they are indicative of the period's agrarian economy, where livestock played a central role. Consider the cultural context: images of fowl were popular, reflecting both an interest in the natural world and the economic importance of these animals. Griffier’s work invites us to reflect on how we perceive and interact with the animal world, and how these perceptions are shaped by cultural and historical forces.