Plate 44: Lobster, Two Crabs, Scallop Shells, and Other Sea Life c. 1575 - 1580

Joris Hoefnagel made this watercolour and gouache on paper, of sea life, at the end of the 16th century. During this period, the notion of the ‘cabinet of curiosities’ became fashionable among Europe’s elites. These collections blurred the lines between art, science, and collecting, and reflected a desire to classify and understand the natural world. Hoefnagel's image is not just a scientific illustration, however. The Latin inscription, ‘You cannot make crabs walk straight’, suggests that this plate is also a moralizing emblem, reminding the viewer of humanity’s imperfections. Hoefnagel was working at a time of great religious and political upheaval in Europe. The rise of Protestantism and the ensuing wars of religion challenged the traditional authority of the Catholic Church. By combining scientific observation with moral commentary, Hoefnagel’s image reflects the complex social and intellectual currents of his time. To fully understand this, we might research the artist's biography, examine similar emblem books, and explore the history of early scientific illustration.