Four studies of a diseased mouse, Jacques de Gheyn (II), 1575 - 1625
brush, h 128mm × w 183mm More details
Many artists developed an interest in natural history in the late 16th century. Jacob de Gheyn counted several scientists among his friends. His considerable knowledge and excellent powers of observation enabled him to portray plants and animals accurately. He painted this apparently sick mouse, with its swollen eyes and fur standing on end, from four angles, as a scientific researcher would.
