Fretachtige before 1650

This etching, "Fretachtige," created by Italian artist Antonio Tempesta before 1650, depicts a muskrat in profile. The detailed depiction of the muskrat's fur, paws, and tail showcases Tempesta's mastery of the etching technique. The work exemplifies the artist's interest in natural history, which he explored through numerous animal illustrations throughout his career. This etching, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a testament to Tempesta's skill and the burgeoning field of scientific illustration in 17th-century Europe.