The Nova Reperta print series—produced by Stradanus in collaboration with Flemish printmaker Philips Galle and first published in 1591—was a “self-consciously modern” project, adopting the task of highlighting the most important innovations in recent European history. The Latin title has been translated to English as either New Discoveries or New Inventions of Modern Times, reflecting the...

Explore the printmaking process—from artist sketch to engraved sheet—in 16th-century Europe.

How to catch a crocodile? In this drawing, the Flemish artist Jan van der Straet, called Stradanus (1523–1605), shows us one particularly bold method. Hunters sit astride their prey, forcing long sticks between the crocodiles’ snapping jaws; companions armed with clubs wait nearby, ready to bludgeon the overpowered reptiles. The image isn’t based on first-hand...