Plate 21: Reindeer with Melons c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 21: Reindeer with Melons" is a watercolor on vellum by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist known for his meticulous depictions of natural history. Created between 1575 and 1580, the artwork showcases Hoefnagel's skill in capturing the intricate details of both animal and plant life. The image depicts a reindeer standing beneath a vine laden with melons, suggesting a harmonious relationship between nature's diverse elements. This exquisite miniature exemplifies Hoefnagel's contributions to the flourishing genre of natural history illustration during the Renaissance.