Plate 23: A Fat-Tailed Sheep, a Sheep with a Long Tail, a "Cassia purgatrix,"and Other Plants c. 1575 - 1580

Joris Hoefnagel's "Plate 23: A Fat-Tailed Sheep, a Sheep with a Long Tail, a 'Cassia purgatrix,' and Other Plants" (c. 1575-1580) is a meticulous watercolor illustration showcasing the artist's mastery of naturalism. Within an oval frame, Hoefnagel depicts a variety of subjects, including two sheep breeds, a flowering plant (possibly Cassia purgatrix), and a fruiting branch. The detailed rendering of the sheep's fleece, the delicate petals of the flower, and the textured leaves of the plant highlight Hoefnagel's meticulous observation and skill. This artwork is characteristic of the artist's "Natural History" series, known for its accurate representations of flora and fauna.