Ocean sunfish (Mola mola) after 1583

Adriaen Coenen's "Ocean sunfish (Mola mola)" is a detailed watercolor study of the fish, also known as the mola mola. Created after 1583, it displays the artist's keen observation of natural forms. Coenen, a Flemish artist known for his illustrations of plants and animals, captures the fish's unique shape and distinctive features with precision. The drawing is presented against a purple background, a common practice in scientific illustration of the period. The inscription accompanying the image provides further information about the fish, highlighting Coenen's commitment to scientific accuracy. This work is a testament to the intersection of art and science in the 16th century, offering a glimpse into the natural world through the eyes of a skilled artist.