Peacock. De Avibus 1551 - 1587

Editor: Here we have a print entitled "Peacock. De Avibus," created sometime between 1551 and 1587 by Conrad Gesner. It’s an engraving on paper and is currently held at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. My first thought is how meticulously detailed the feathers are; they almost seem to vibrate on the page. What do you see in this piece that stands out to you? Curator: It really pulls you in, doesn’t it? Beyond the gorgeous detail, remember this image appears within a larger text. Gesner was a Renaissance scholar trying to create a comprehensive natural history, a kind of encyclopedia of the natural world. Each bird was believed to possess specific symbolic meanings; even just knowing the names for the creature was a window onto its essence! What do you make of that level of… specificity, almost obsessive detail? Editor: It’s almost overwhelming. The level of observation and detail really speaks to a different way of understanding the world – a world that demanded categorizing and naming to truly grasp something. Does the way it’s presented – more scientific illustration than artwork – influence how we see it today? Curator: Absolutely! It walks this fascinating line between scientific observation and artistic expression. Think about it: before photography, these images were how people learned about these creatures. What are the layers of cultural beliefs informing the illustration, what did people believe this bird symbolized? So it's information, imagination, and belief all wrapped into one image. I find that exhilarating! Don't you? Editor: Definitely. It makes you think about the blurred lines between art, science, and history. The image, while beautiful on its own, is made even richer by understanding its historical context and Gesner's original intentions. Thanks for sharing your perspective. Curator: My pleasure. I love thinking of it fluttering between the artist’s imagination and its supposed presence on earth! A dance of observation, you might say.