Who painted Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish?

Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish was painted by Joris Hoefnagel in 1594.

Where can I see Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish?

Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish?

Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish

Joris Hoefnagel , 1594

Plate 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish 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 3: A Walrus, a Nine-Legged Octopus, and Ocean Sunfish is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment created by Joris Hoefnagel around 1594. It exemplifies the artist's meticulous approach to natural history illustration.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts an underwater scene featuring a walrus, an octopus with an unusual number of legs, and two fish. The Latin inscription 'The polypus struck seven times' suggests a blend of real and fantastical creatures, leaving interpretation open to the viewer.

Technique & Style

Hoefnagel employed watercolor and gold paint to achieve a detailed and ornate effect. The use of glazing allowed for layered color buildup, contributing to the work's precision and decorative quality.

Context

As a leading manuscript illuminator, Hoefnagel's work influenced the development of topographical drawing and floral still-life painting in northern Europe. This drawing reflects his contribution to the evolution of natural history illustration.