Artwork
Plate 38: Merganser with Two Other Waterfowl and a Garland of Melons and Gourds
Plate 38: Merganser with Two Other Waterfowl and a Garland of Melons and Gourds 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 38: Merganser with Two Other Waterfowl and a Garland of Melons and Gourds is a watercolor and gold paint work on parchment created by Joris Hoefnagel around 1594.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts three waterfowl swimming in calm water near land, accompanied by a surreal garland of melons, gourds, and leaves floating above them. The juxtaposition of the naturalistic birds with the fantastical garland creates a sense of contrast.
Technique & Style
Hoefnagel's use of watercolor and gold paint achieves a high level of detail and color nuance, blending scientific observation with decorative artistry. The work showcases his skill in building up colors through techniques such as glazing.
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, combining natural studies with ornamental design.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joris Hoefnagel or Georg Hoefnagel (1542 – 24 July 1601) was a Flemish painter, printmaker, miniaturist, draftsman and merchant.
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