Scandinavian Hand-Coloured Fish Lithograph, 1895, Paper

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Colorful scandinavian wrasse trio - stunning 19th century fish lithograph this captivating 19th-century lithograph showcases three vibrant scandinavian wrasse species, … Read more Colorful scandinavian wrasse trio - stunning 19th century fish lithograph this captivating 19th-century lithograph showcases three vibrant scandinavian wrasse species, beautifully illustrated with meticulous attention to detail. The print, originally part of the monumental natural history work 'skandinaviens fiskar', presents the ballan wrasse (labrus berggylta), rock cook (labrus rupestris), and goldsinny wrasse (labrus exoletus) in vivid hand-colored splendor. These fish, native to the cold and brackish waters of scandinavia, are depicted with striking realism that highlights their distinctive features and brilliant hues. The ballan wrasse, with its robust, scale-covered body and deep green mottled pattern, stands out as the largest and most imposing of the trio. Its textured scales and arched dorsal fin are meticulously rendered, capturing the fish's natural strength and beauty. The rock cook appears more delicate and streamlined, adorned with a subtle yellow-green tone that contrasts elegantly with its angular fin structures. Completing the composition is the goldsinny wrasse, distinguished by its vivid golden body and spiny dorsal fin, rendered with remarkable clarity and precision. This print exemplifies the finest of 19th-century natural history art, where lithographic techniques were combined with meticulous hand coloring to produce lifelike representations of wildlife. The lithography captures intricate line details, while the subsequent hand coloring breathes life into the illustrations, creating a sense of depth and movement. The craftsmanship and dedication involved in producing such prints ensured that each piece was a unique work of art, celebrated for both its scientific accuracy and aesthetic beauty. Wilhelm von wright, one of the most renowned natural history illustrators of the 19th century, collaborated with eminent naturalists b. Fries, c. U. Ekström, and c. Sundevall under the supervision of f. A. Smitt to produce this monumental work. Published in stockholm by p. A. Norstedt & söners förlag, *skandinaviens fiskar* aimed to document the richness of scandinavian aquatic life. Its stunning illustrations made it an instant classic among ichthyologists and collectors alike. Condition: the exceptional condition of this print makes it an excellent candidate for framing and display. The colors are bright and well-preserved, and the paper quality remains strong and clean. Framing tips: to enhance the rich hues and intricate detailing, consider using a traditional frame with off-white or cream-colored matting that complements the natural tones of the fish. This choice not only protects the print but also emphasizes its visual impact, making it a captivating focal point in any natural history collection or coastal-themed interior. See less