[MR] The Rhino in period

[David W. James]

On Thursday, November 13, 2003, at 08:30  AM, Jim Layne wrote:
> My memory isnt always reliable, but isnt there an
> illumination from the travels of Sir Francis Drake of
> a Rhino? Was the beast known in period?

I have to go to a meeting, so I can't look it up all the details right 
now, but yes, the rhino was known in period.  I am certain it shows up 
in the artwork of Durer and I believe Guillard du Honiecut (I'm sure 
I'm butchering that name this time, sorry) also drew one.  I don't 
recall seeing the rhino listed in the bestiaries, but the 'monocerous' 
(a different beast than the unicorn, in spite of the similar name) 
always appeared to be a rhino as described by someone who had only 
heard tales of the beast.

I can't think of a beast known for the thickness and toughness of its 
hide the same way the tiger was known for its speed.  The elephant 
comes close, but isn't quite there, as I remember it.

David/Kwellend-Njal