Haan 1594

Jacques de Fornazeris created this print, "Haan," around 1584. Its monochromatic presentation, achieved through etching, draws immediate attention to the complex texture of the rooster’s plumage. The composition is carefully structured, presenting the rooster in profile, a familiar pose that recalls classical depictions of animals. Yet, Fornazeris disrupts this conventional approach through a meticulous focus on detail. The rooster's feathers are depicted with an almost scientific precision. Look closely at the tail, which shows an elaborate arrangement of curved shapes. This creates a rich interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the tangible qualities of the rooster’s physical form. Ultimately, "Haan" uses the formal language of etching to explore ideas of representation and perception. The image invites us to see beyond the mere subject and recognize the complexities of natural forms through the lens of artistic interpretation.