In the Library: Animal Illustration in Europe, 1550–1750
Published on July 25, 2025
Explore the world of animal illustrations at the dawn of European natural history, when scientific discovery and imagination combined. Peek into nearly 40 works from the Library’s rare book collection.
From the largest mammals to the smallest insects, the animal world has always inspired writers and illustrators. Since ancient times, humans have projected character traits onto animals. In medieval Europe, animals became subjects of a new literary genre of religious stories. At the same time, a growing interest in science made artists concerned with anatomic accuracy.
See how illustrators approached the same creatures from different perspectives during this period of rich development. You’ll find early scientific drawings, illustrated fables, and drawing manuals from the 16th to 18th centuries—all rarely on view.
Running from May 19 – October 31, 2025, the exhibit will be on view at the National Gallery of Art, 4th St NW, Washington DC, 20565.
For more information, click here.
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