Plate 74: Insects with White Daffodils c. 1575 - 1580

Joris Hoefnagel created this watercolor and gouache painting of insects and white daffodils around 1575–1600. It’s a beautifully observed natural study, but its meanings are rooted in the culture of its time. Made in the Habsburg Empire, this kind of naturalism reflected a growing interest in scientific observation, fueled by the exploration of the natural world. Botanical illustration became increasingly popular, and books of hours might feature naturalistic borders of flowers, insects, and small animals. Yet, the tradition of naturalism was also intertwined with social hierarchies. The careful observation and cataloging of the natural world was often the preserve of the wealthy and educated. Collecting specimens and commissioning detailed paintings were signs of status. Understanding this image better involves researching the culture of early science and the patronage system of the Habsburg Empire. The social and institutional context shaped both the production and the interpretation of this kind of art.