Who painted Weasels and Squirrels?

Weasels and Squirrels was painted by Adriaen Collaert in 1597.

Where can I see Weasels and Squirrels?

Weasels and Squirrels is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Weasels and Squirrels?

Weasels and Squirrels is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Weasels and Squirrels

Adriaen Collaert , 1597

Weasels and Squirrels is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Adriaen Collaert. It dates from 1597 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Weasels and Squirrels, an engraving on laid paper by Adriaen Collaert, dates to circa 1597. The work depicts a forest scene featuring two weasels and a squirrel.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays a tense interaction: a squirrel clings to a tree while two weasels gaze up, their sharp claws and teeth emphasized. Weasels and squirrels were often used in contemporary teachings to symbolize sneakiness and cleverness, respectively.

Technique & Style

Collaert achieved the engraving's detailed textures and forms through fine-line metal carving, characteristic of the period's printmaking techniques.

History & Provenance

Created around 1597, the engraving's provenance is not detailed here, but it is attributed with certainty to Adriaen Collaert.

Context

This work reflects the 16th-century interest in illustrating nature for both aesthetic and didactic purposes, where animals were chosen for their symbolic qualities.