Gevleugelde zeehond met een soort zadel op zijn rug 1580 - 1610

This detailed engraving, "Gevleugelde zeehond met een soort zadel op zijn rug" by Giovanni Andrea Maglioli, depicts a fantastical creature with the head of a lion, the body of a sea serpent, and feathered wings. The creature lies on a bed of waves, emphasizing its aquatic nature. The artist's masterful use of hatching and crosshatching creates a sense of depth and texture, making the creature appear almost lifelike. This print, part of a series of "monstrous" creatures, likely served as a source of wonder and inspiration for viewers in the 16th and 17th centuries. The artwork is now housed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where it continues to enchant audiences with its detailed and imaginative design.