Artwork
Plate 68: Leafy Spurge Hawkmoth Caterpillar, Mullein Moth Caterpillar, and Other Caterpillars
Plate 68: Leafy Spurge Hawkmoth Caterpillar, Mullein Moth Caterpillar, and Other Caterpillars 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. This intricate drawing on parchment features five caterpillars arranged within a circular border, rendered in watercolor and gold paint.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:center right in brown ink: LXVIII. Facing page: upper center in brown ink: Virtutem magnitudinis eius quis enunciabit.Ecc 18. (“Who can express the excellence of his greatness?” Ecclesiasticus 18:4) (Latin Vulgate Bible)
About this work
Overview
This intricate drawing on parchment features five caterpillars arranged within a circular border, rendered in watercolor and gold paint. Created around 1594, it exemplifies the artist's meticulous attention to natural detail.
Subject & Meaning
The caterpillars depicted vary in appearance, with some striped, others fuzzy or colored to blend with their surroundings. A small, shell-like form is positioned at the center, adding to the composition's complexity. The work reflects the artist's focus on natural history subjects.
Technique & Style
The use of watercolor and gold paint on parchment showcases the artist's skill in combining delicate coloration with luxurious gilding. The gold frame enhances the overall effect, lending an air of elegance to the naturalistic subject matter.
History & Provenance
Joris Hoefnagel, a Flemish painter and draftsman, created this work during the late 16th century, a period when he was contributing to the evolution of natural history illustration and still-life painting in northern Europe.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Joris Hoefnagel or Georg Hoefnagel (1542 – 24 July 1601) was a Flemish painter, printmaker, miniaturist, draftsman and merchant.
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