Owl on Back of Donkey, Bird on Back of Camel with Other Animals

Nicolaes de Bruyn

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing featuring various animals, including a camel, a donkey, birds, and a dog-like creature. The central focus is on a camel and a donkey, with an owl perched on the donkey's back. Birds, including a crow or raven, are flying around them or perched on the animals. A dog-like creature is shown at the feet of the donkey and camel. The background is filled with more birds in flight. The scene is set against a simple, dark background that highlights the texture and details of the animals through intricate linework and shading, giving it a woodcut or engraving style reminiscent of early European artwork.