Artwork preview

Plate 28: Sea Bream(?) and Other Fish

Joris Hoefnagel

National Gallery of Art

The image shows several fish of different species and sizes in a circular composition against a background of water. The largest fish, located towards the top left, is brown with blue stripes and a blue tail fin. Other fish in pastel hues of yellow, pink, green, and blue are scattered throughout the circle with unique patterns and details. The color palette is soft and muted, including shades of blue, brown, yellow, pink, and green. The fish appear to be swimming in different directions within the circle, some overlapping each other. The circular border frames the scene, focusing the viewer's attention on the fish and their varying colors.

Artwork Details

Date
c.1575/1590s
Medium
watercolor and gold paint on parchment
Dimensions
5201 × 3862 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original