Artwork

Title Page

Title Page, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594
Title Page, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594

Title Page 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

This small, intricately designed title page was created using watercolor and gold paint on parchment. The detailed work and luxurious gold paint suggest it was intended for a special book.

Technique & Style

The title page showcases the artist's skillful use of watercolor and gold paint, combining detailed observation with decorative artistry. The text is rendered in a fancy script, adding to the overall ornateness of the piece.

Subject & Meaning

As a title page, this work served a functional purpose while also demonstrating the artist's ability to imbue a mundane element with intricate design and luxury.

History & Provenance

Created around 1594 by Joris Hoefnagel, a Flemish painter and miniaturist known for his natural history illustrations and topographical views, this title page reflects his broader practice as one of the last manuscript illuminators.

Legacy

Hoefnagel's work, including this title page, contributed to the development of floral still-life painting in northern Europe, influencing the course of art in the region.

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.