Plate 15: Crane and Bittern(?) by Joris Hoefnagel

Plate 15: Crane and Bittern(?) c. 1575 - 1580

jorishoefnagel

drawing

aged paper

toned paper

water colours

curved letter used

coloured pencil

ink colored

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

botanical art

watercolor

"Plate 15: Crane and Bittern(?)" is a watercolor on vellum by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, dating to c. 1575-1580. The artwork depicts a crane and a bittern in an oval frame, with a Latin inscription at the top. Hoefnagel was known for his meticulous depictions of natural history subjects, and this work is a prime example of his style. The delicate details of the birds' feathers and the surrounding foliage showcase his mastery of watercolor. This plate is part of a larger series of bird illustrations, showcasing Hoefnagel's talent for capturing the beauty and diversity of the natural world.