Plate 21: Swamp Hen and Woodcock with a Streaked Rosefinch, a Finch, and Oak Galls c. 1575 - 1580

Joris Hoefnagel's "Plate 21: Swamp Hen and Woodcock with a Streaked Rosefinch, a Finch, and Oak Galls" (c. 1575-1580) is a meticulously detailed watercolor on vellum, showcasing Hoefnagel's mastery of naturalism. This plate from his renowned "Book of Animals" series exemplifies the artist's penchant for scientific accuracy and aesthetic beauty. The vibrant colors, delicate brushstrokes, and intricate details bring these avian subjects to life within a carefully crafted oval composition. The inclusion of oak galls and a streaked rosefinch emphasizes the interconnectedness of nature and the artist's keen observation of the natural world.