Aal en baars 1581 - 1652

"Aal en baars" (Eel and Perch) is a detailed, anonymous engraving from the 17th century. It showcases a European eel and a perch, labeled in Dutch, depicting their physical characteristics with remarkable accuracy. This work, housed at the Rijksmuseum, likely served as a scientific illustration, showcasing the diversity of the natural world for both scientific and general audiences. The engraving's meticulous detail, paired with its scientific labeling, reveals the burgeoning interest in natural history during the Dutch Golden Age.