Who painted Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders?

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders was painted by Joris Hoefnagel in 1594.

Where can I see Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders?

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders?

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders?

Museum-quality prints of Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders

Joris Hoefnagel , 1594

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders 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:Center right in brown ink: XXXXI. Facing page: Upper center in black ink: Multam gloriam fecit Dominus magnificentia / sua a seculo: Eccles[us].44. (“The Lord has wrought great glory through his magnificence from the beginning.” Ecclesiasticus 44:2) (Latin Vulgate Bible)

About this work

Overview

Plate 41: Yellow Spider Surrounded by Eight Spiders is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment, created by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel circa 1594. This piece exemplifies Hoefnagel's dual expertise in natural history illustration and manuscript illumination.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a central yellow spider encircled by eight others, showcasing Hoefnagel's meticulous observation of natural subjects. The composition balances scientific precision with ornamental flair, characteristic of his artistic approach.

Technique & Style

Hoefnagel employed watercolor and gold paint on parchment, techniques rooted in manuscript illumination. The use of gold paint adds a decorative layer, reflecting his ability to merge scientific drawing with aesthetic embellishment.

History & Provenance

Created around 1594, this work marks Hoefnagel's contribution to the late manuscript illumination tradition. His practice influenced the emergence of topographical drawing and standalone floral still-life in northern Europe.

Legacy

As one of the last prominent manuscript illuminators, Hoefnagel's work, including Plate 41, bridged traditional illumination and the development of new artistic genres in the region.