Blanchard, Anglerfish or Monkfish, 1845, Hand-Colored Lithograph

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Antique Print of the Anglerfish or Monkfish – Hand-Colored French Lithograph, 1845 This remarkable hand-colored lithograph features La Baudroie (Lophius … Read more Antique Print of the Anglerfish or Monkfish – Hand-Colored French Lithograph, 1845 This remarkable hand-colored lithograph features La Baudroie (Lophius Piscatorius), commonly known as the Anglerfish or Monkfish. It was published in 1845 as part of the French scientific expedition Voyage en Islande et au Groenland, an ambitious study of Arctic marine life. Issued in Paris by Arthus Bertrand, this plate stands out as a dramatic and beautifully detailed example of early marine zoology illustration. The Anglerfish is shown in full profile, highlighting its extraordinary adaptations: a wide, gaping mouth lined with needle-like teeth, fringed barbels along the lower jaw, and its signature modified dorsal spine—an extended filament with a fleshy lure, used to attract prey in the deep sea. The fish’s scaleless, mottled skin is rendered in rich browns and olive tones, capturing its camouflaged appearance on the seabed. This is plate “Poissons Pl. 19” and was drawn by Oudart and engraved by Blanchard. The level of detail in this illustration, from the fine texture of the fins to the expressive eye and layered head spines, reflects the high standards of French expeditionary publishing in the mid-19th century. The print balances scientific accuracy with aesthetic impact, making it highly desirable for collectors of natural history or marine-themed decor. The Anglerfish, found in cold and temperate waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic, was of great interest to naturalists in the 1800s due to its bizarre morphology and predatory behavior. It remains one of the most iconic deep-sea species to this day. The *Voyage en Islande et au Groenland* (1840–45) was part of France’s effort to catalog the flora and fauna of Arctic regions. The zoological volumes, including this one, remain treasured for their visual beauty and scientific significance. Condition: Very good condition. Light scattered foxing, mostly in the outer margins. Image area clean and bright. Strong plate impression and excellent preservation of the original hand-coloring. Framing Tips: This print makes a dramatic statement when framed in dark wood or black with a wide ivory or pale gray mat. Ideal for display in marine-themed interiors, scientific collections, or eclectic gallery walls. Use UV-protective glass to maintain color vibrancy. See less