Wilhelm von Wright, Flounder, Common Sole and Dab, 1895, Lithograph on Paper

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This beautifully detailed 19th-century lithograph from *Skandinaviens Fiskar* showcases three iconic flatfish species from Scandinavian waters: the Flounder (Pleuronectes microcephalus), … Read more This beautifully detailed 19th-century lithograph from *Skandinaviens Fiskar* showcases three iconic flatfish species from Scandinavian waters: the Flounder (Pleuronectes microcephalus), the Common Sole (Solea vulgaris), and the Dab (Pleuronectes limanda).

Created by the talented Wilhelm von Wright and published by P. A. Norstedt & Söners Förlag in Stockholm, this exquisite print exemplifies the combination of scientific accuracy and artistic finesse that characterizes this monumental natural history series. At the top of the plate, the Flounder (Pleuronectes microcephalus) is depicted with its distinctive oval body and intricate pattern of dark spots scattered across an earthy green and yellow background. The carefully rendered texture and nuanced hand coloring capture the fine details of its rough scales and subtly spotted fins. The natural camouflage of the Flounder allows it to blend seamlessly into sandy and muddy seabeds, a quality vividly conveyed in this masterful illustration. In the center of the composition lies the Common Sole (Solea vulgaris), known for its elongated, asymmetric body and smooth, dark skin. The deep, almost olive-brown hue and fine line work convey the soft, leathery texture of the Sole’s upper surface, contrasting with its lighter underbelly. As a prized flatfish species known for its delicate taste and commercial value, the Common Sole’s realistic portrayal reflects both its culinary and ecological significance. At the bottom of the print is the Dab (Pleuronectes limanda), a more rounded flatfish with a smooth, sandy-brown coloration accented by small, scattered spots. The fin structure is finely delineated, and the subtle transition from the darker center to the lighter edges of the body reflects the Dab’s natural coloration. Often found in shallow coastal waters, the Dab is a common sight on sandy and gravelly bottoms, its flat, low-profile body well-suited to life on the seabed. The lithographic technique used in this print seamlessly blends detailed line work with vibrant hand coloring, resulting in a lifelike and aesthetically pleasing representation. Each fish is portrayed with careful attention to its anatomical features and natural coloration, reflecting the dedication to both scientific documentation and artistic excellence.

Condition: The print is in very good condition, with vivid colors and crisp details that have been remarkably preserved. See less