Plate 34: Bird of Paradise with Mereganser(?) and Grebe(?) c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 34: Bird of Paradise with Mereganser(?) and Grebe(?)" is a watercolor and gouache painting by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist of the 16th century. This exquisite work, created between 1575 and 1580, showcases Hoefnagel's exceptional skill in capturing the intricate details of nature. The illustration depicts a vibrant Bird of Paradise, a species native to New Guinea, in the upper left corner. Below it, two water birds, possibly a merganser and a grebe, are rendered with meticulous accuracy. This piece, likely part of a larger series, exemplifies Hoefnagel's fascination with the natural world and his contribution to the scientific illustration of the Renaissance. The delicate lines and vibrant colors of the artwork bring these exotic creatures to life, showcasing Hoefnagel's mastery of naturalism and his enduring legacy in the history of art.