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Artwork

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant

Joris Hoefnagel , 1594

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594
Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant, by Joris Hoefnagel, gouache, 1594

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant 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.

Inscription
Inscribed:upper center in red ink: PRINCIPVM PRECES:; center right in (gold?): XXXXI; animals in image numbered .1. and .2., in red ink; coconut palm in image numbered .3., in red ink; pepper plant in image numbered .4., in red ink; lower center in black ink: PRECES ARMATAE. Facing page: upper center in brown ink: Laudate Caeli et exultet Terra / Jubilate MONTES laudem Isa 49. (“Give praise, O ye heavens, and rejoice, O earth, ye mountains, give praise with jubilation.” Isaiah 49:13) (Latin Vulgate Bible)

About this work

Overview

Created around 1594 by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel, Plate 41 is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment, showcasing a diverse assembly of fauna and flora within a compact, framed composition.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two armadillos, a marmoset, a coconut palm, and a pepper plant in a naturalistic setting. The inclusion of Latin labels for each element emphasizes the work's scientific intent alongside its decorative appeal.

Technique & Style

Hoefnagel's blend of precise observation with ornate decoration characterizes the piece. Gold paint accents highlight key subjects, while the overall arrangement reflects his transitional role from manuscript illumination to independent natural history illustration.

History & Provenance

Originally part of a larger project, Plate 41's specific provenance details are not provided here, though it is known to be part of Hoefnagel's contributions to late Renaissance scientific and artistic advancements.

Context

Reflecting the late Renaissance's growing interest in natural history, this work exemplifies Hoefnagel's influence on topographical and botanical illustration, bridging detailed observation with aesthetic appeal.

Legacy

As part of Hoefnagel's oeuvre, Plate 41 contributes to his legacy in pioneering independent naturalistic studies, inspiring subsequent generations in both scientific illustration and decorative arts.

Plate 12: A Cheetah(?) and a Wild Sheep
Plate 12: A Cheetah(?) and a Wild Sheep, Joris Hoefnagel

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.

MORE BY JORIS HOEFNAGEL

SAME SUBJECT

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant?

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant was painted by Joris Hoefnagel in 1594.

Where can I see Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant?

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant?

Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant?

Museum-quality prints of Plate 41: Two Types of Armadillos with a Marmoset, a Coconut Palm, and a Pepper Plant are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.