Artwork

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10]

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10], by Jacob Hoefnagel, ink, 1592
Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10], by Jacob Hoefnagel, ink, 1592

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jacob Hoefnagel. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] is an engraving on laid paper created by Jacob Hoefnagel in 1592. It is part of a series of prints documenting natural history specimens.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts various insects and small animals, including a mouse, caterpillar, butterfly, snail, grasshopper, chrysalis, and spider, amidst flowers and branches. The Latin text 'Mus non uni fidit antro' ('The mouse does not trust one den') conveys a warning about relying on a single refuge.

Technique & Style

The work showcases the detailed, scientific illustration style characteristic of late Renaissance and early Baroque art. The engraving's precise lines and sharp details demonstrate the technical capabilities of the medium.

History & Provenance

Jacob Hoefnagel, the Antwerp-born artist, created this early work before serving as a court painter to Rudolf II and the Swedish court. He followed his father Joris Hoefnagel's naturalistic approach, expanding into broader subjects.

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 3, Plate 7]
Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 3, Plate 7], Jacob Hoefnagel

Artist & collection

Artist

Jacob Hoefnagel

Jacob Hoefnagel (also 'Jacobus', 'Jakob' or 'Jakub") (1573 in Antwerp – c.1632 in Hamburg), was a Flemish painter, printmaker, miniaturist, draftsman, art dealer, diplomat, merchant and politician.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10]?

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] was painted by Jacob Hoefnagel in 1592.

Where can I see Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10]?

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10]?

Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10]?

Museum-quality prints of Archetypa studiaque patris Georgii Hoefnagelii [Part 1, Plate 10] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.