History Of Animal Prints
The first images of animals in art appeared in Prehistoric times, as evidenced by the cave paintings of horses, bulls, and birds found in the Lascaux caves. Animals also held symbolic significance in religious works. The Egyptian gods, for example, were human-animal hybrids, and animals associated with Christianity such as lambs and doves were often incorporated in medieval artworks, architecture, and illuminated manuscripts to convey an allegorical message to viewers. Global civilizations also associated strong animals like bulls and lions with their political leaders in artistic representations. During the Renaissance, artists sought to depict the world as realistically as possible. They made detailed studies of animals to sharpen their artistic skills, document the world, and identify and classify wildlife. Animals remained a common subject for artists across eras, styles, and mediums. Albrecht Dürer is well known for his studies of animals like his watercolor work “Young Hare” (1502). Leonardo da Vinci also made studies of animals in motion. George Stubbs is recognized for his realistic representations of horses. Other artists known for creating animal prints and artworks include Rembrandt van Rijn, David Hockney, Pablo Picasso, Peter Paul Rubens, Paul Gauguin, Paul Klee, Kiki Smith, and John James Audubon.
Decorating With Animal Prints
If your family is captivated by the animal kingdom, consider creating an animal-themed nursery, child’s bedroom, or family room. For increased visual interest, select multiple prints in a variety of mediums while keeping to a specific theme. For example, you might select prints of cat paintings as well as charcoal drawings and watercolors also featuring felines. To help you get started, our curators have compiled a stunning collection of animal prints such as Beasts of the Northern Wild by Lynn Skordal and Three Gooses in the Rain by Marie-Helene Stokkink.
Gifting With Animal Prints
If you need a gift for an animal-loving friend or family member, you can find prints featuring a variety of animal species in a large range of artistic styles and mediums. For example, dog lovers may enjoy Faithful by Patricia Derks, Socrates by Thomas Saliot, or Marriage by Kelly Puissegur. Those fond of horses may appreciate Caballos Celestes by Mario Bertorelli, This Is the Way That Gentlemen Ride by Claire Moore, or Galloping Horse by Sylvia Baldeva. For more gift recommendations, view Saatchi Art’s curated collection of animal prints today.
