Artwork
Plate 26: A Red Fox and a Wolf

Plate 26: A Red Fox and a Wolf is a gouache drawing by the Renaissance artist Joris Hoefnagel. It dates from 1594 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Plate 26: A Red Fox and a Wolf is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment created by Joris Hoefnagel around 1594. It exemplifies the artist's expertise in natural history illustration and manuscript illumination.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a red fox and a wolf on a grassy hill, with a tree trunk and branch in the background. The animals face each other, their tails hanging down, and the wolf's mouth is open. The scene is rendered against a light beige background.
Technique & Style
Hoefnagel's use of watercolor and gold paint on parchment achieves a delicate, precise effect. Intricate details and textures are visible in the fur and foliage, showcasing the artist's skill in blending scientific observation with artistic precision.
Context
As a Flemish artist and one of the last manuscript illuminators, Hoefnagel's work contributed to the development of floral still-life painting in northern Europe. His detailed studies of flora and fauna reflect his broader contributions to manuscript illumination and ornamental design.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joris Hoefnagel or Georg Hoefnagel (1542 – 24 July 1601) was a Flemish painter, printmaker, miniaturist, draftsman and merchant.


















