Artwork

Plate 5: A Hooded Falcon and Its Wild Counterpart

Plate 5: A Hooded Falcon and Its Wild Counterpart, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594
Plate 5: A Hooded Falcon and Its Wild Counterpart, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594

Plate 5: A Hooded Falcon and Its Wild Counterpart 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 5: A Hooded Falcon and Its Wild Counterpart is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment created by Joris Hoefnagel around 1594. The work showcases Hoefnagel's skill in natural history illustration and manuscript illumination.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two birds within a gold circle: a hooded falcon grasping a small mammal, possibly a rabbit, and a wild hawk perched calmly beside it. The contrast between the two birds highlights their differences, with the plain background emphasizing their forms.

Technique & Style

Hoefnagel employed watercolor and gold paint on parchment to achieve a precise and ornate effect. The use of watercolor allowed for delicate coloration, while the gold paint added a touch of luxury to the work.

Context

As a Flemish artist, Hoefnagel was part of a tradition that valued detailed studies of flora and fauna. His work reflects the blending of scientific observation and decorative artistry characteristic of late manuscript illumination.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joris Hoefnagel

Artist

Joris Hoefnagel

Joris Hoefnagel or Georg Hoefnagel (1542 – 24 July 1601) was a Flemish painter, printmaker, miniaturist, draftsman and merchant.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.