Blanchard, Icelandic Flounder, Hand-Colored Lithograph, 1845

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Antique Print of the Icelandic Flounder (Pleuronectes superciliaris) – Hand-Colored Lithograph, 1845 This elegant hand-colored lithograph features La Pole (Pleuronectes … Read more Antique Print of the Icelandic Flounder (Pleuronectes superciliaris) – Hand-Colored Lithograph, 1845 This elegant hand-colored lithograph features La Pole (Pleuronectes superciliaris), a species of flatfish now considered part of the flounder or righteye flounder group. The print was published in Paris in 1845 as part of the zoological series from the French Arctic expedition Voyage en Islande et au Groenland, a foundational 19th-century work documenting the marine life of the North Atlantic. The fish is illustrated with remarkable clarity and precision, shown in full lateral view with its eyes positioned on the right side of the body, characteristic of this genus. The rich brown tones are finely detailed, with each individual scale rendered through delicate cross-hatching. The dorsal and anal fins create an elegant oval silhouette around the body, while the pectoral fin and tail are subtly highlighted. Above the main figure is an anatomical inset showing the mouth and jaw structure in cross-section, emphasizing the species' feeding adaptations and asymmetrical morphology. This is plate “Poissons Pl. 23,” drawn by Louis Bévalet, engraved by H. Blanchard, and printed by Arthus Bertrand. The artistry combines scientific accuracy with aesthetic appeal, making it highly desirable for collectors of marine zoology and antique prints. Pleuronectes superciliaris was described during a time of expanding knowledge of Arctic fish species, and while modern taxonomy may have reclassified it under a different name, the image remains a beautifully preserved visual record of early ichthyological exploration. The Voyage en Islande et au Groenland was part of France’s broader mission to document biodiversity in high-latitude marine environments. Today, these prints are prized for their historical value and decorative quality. Condition: Good condition. Slight age toning and a few foxing spots primarily in the margins. Strong plate impression. No tears or repairs noted. Coloration remains rich and intact. Framing Tips: This print is well suited for minimalist black or walnut framing with an off-white or cream mat to bring out the warm brown tones of the fish. An excellent choice for maritime decor, coastal interiors, or natural history collections. Use UV-filtering glazing to protect the fine hand coloring. See less