Cowry Shells 1726 - 1779

Johann Gustav Hoch’s “Cowry Shells” is a meticulous, detailed illustration of a variety of cowry shells. Painted between 1726 and 1779, the artwork displays 15 cowry shells of varying sizes and colors. Hoch’s precise rendering of the shells’ intricate patterns and textures demonstrates the artist’s keen eye for detail and mastery of the watercolor medium. This still life showcasing the diverse natural world, provides a glimpse into the aesthetic appreciation of nature in the 18th century.