In the article The Rhinoceros from Dürer to Stubbs by T.H. Clarke tells the story of a Rhino also referred to as the “unhappy Ganda”. This Rhinoceros travels from Goa to Lisbon and then was sent off to Rome only to sink to death during the voyage. Rhinos were considered such novelty due to its rareness.
Albrecht Dürer contributed to the popularity of Rhinos by creating a woodblock depiction of a Rhino that truly displayed its character. Almost a clear representation of his essence. However Dürer approached the design of the Rhino in a very decorative and ornamental form by adding armor like designs. Even though Dürer exaggerated certain features and that is why many people referred back to his woodcut for years. It drew up questions on whether or not he had seen a real life Rhinoceros or if he had merely elaborated on a sketch of a Rhino.
Representations of Animals became a necessity due to society's curiosity. It wasn't like people could pick up a phone and search it up on google. This is why there was so many interpretations of Rhinos. People kept elaborating on this idea of a Rhino for years even after naturalistic portraits of Rhinos were created.
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