Who painted Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons?

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons was painted by Joris Hoefnagel in 1594.

Where can I see Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons?

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons?

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons?

Museum-quality prints of Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons

Joris Hoefnagel , 1594

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons 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 (gold?): TVRTVRVM CONCORDIA CORNICVLAE VIVACITAS.; center right in (gold?): LXVI.; birds in image numbered .1., .2., .3., .4., .5., and .6., in red ink; on tree branch in image, in (gold?): Turture loquacior.; on roof tiles at right in image, in black ink: PRO COLVMBA PALV[M]BES.; lower center in red/violet ink: Quis dabit mihi pennas sicut COLVMBAE. / et volabo, et quiescam. ps: 54: (“Who will give me wings like a dove, and I will fly and be at rest?” Psalms 54:7) (Latin Vulgate Bible)

About this work

Overview

Plate 66: Doves and Pigeons is a watercolor and gold paint drawing on parchment created by Joris Hoefnagel around 1594. It is a representative example of the artist's work in natural history illustration.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts six doves and pigeons perched on branches and rocks within a gold-edged circular border. The birds are labeled 'Columba Palumbes' and are shown in various colors, some with red leg bands, against a simple tree background with leaves and fruit.

Technique & Style

Hoefnagel's detailed and scientifically informed approach to depicting natural subjects is evident in the work. The use of watercolor and gold paint on parchment reflects his background in manuscript illumination, combining artistic skill with observational accuracy.

Context

This work is part of Hoefnagel's broader engagement with natural history illustration and ornamental design, contributing to the development of floral still-life painting as a distinct genre in northern Europe.