Freshwater Bullhead and Short-Spined Sea Scorpion - Striking Fish Litho, 1895
€ 280
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1895
Sheet size
33 × 27 cm (13.0 × 10.6 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13355-8
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
The print is preserved in a very good to excellent condition, with vivid colors and crisp lines well maintained over the years.
About this sheet
Freshwater Bullhead and Short-Spined Sea Scorpion - Striking Scandinavian Fish Lithograph
This remarkable 19th-century lithograph from Skandinaviens Fiskar features three impressive Scandinavian fish species: the Freshwater Bullhead (Cottus gobio) and two variations of the Short-Spined Sea Scorpion (Cottus scorpius), male and female. This captivating print exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship and scientific accuracy that define Wilhelm von Wright’s celebrated natural history illustrations. Published by P. A. Norstedt & Söners Förlag in Stockholm, this plate beautifully captures the rugged and diverse aquatic life of northern Europe.
At the top of the print, the Freshwater Bullhead (Cottus gobio) is shown with its characteristic stout body, olive-green coloration, and irregular dark blotches. Its compact size and robust head give it a somewhat fierce appearance, while the intricate patterning and precise hand coloring enhance its lifelike quality. Known for inhabiting cold, fast-flowing streams and rivers, the Freshwater Bullhead is a resilient species well adapted to its harsh environment.
Beneath it lies the male Short-Spined Sea Scorpion (Cottus scorpius), distinguished by its bold, fan-shaped pectoral fins and heavily armored head. The intricate detailing of its spines and colorful, speckled patterns highlight the fish’s natural camouflage, blending seamlessly into rocky coastal environments. The dark hues are interspersed with splashes of yellow and red on the fins, reflecting Wright’s dedication to capturing both scientific accuracy and aesthetic appeal.
At the bottom of the plate, the female Short-Spined Sea Scorpion is rendered with equal precision, exhibiting a slightly lighter coloration with more muted patterns compared to the male. The contrasting textures and fine shading reflect the natural diversity within the species, emphasizing the differences between the sexes. Both scorpions are known for their robust, spiny bodies and predatory nature, inhabiting rocky seabeds and shallow coastal waters throughout Scandinavia.
This lithograph exemplifies the remarkable combination of lithographic precision and vibrant hand coloring, characteristic of Wilhelm von Wright’s approach to natural history art. Each fish is depicted with exceptional realism, capturing the distinctive features that make them unique and scientifically valuable. The visual harmony between art and science makes this lithograph an invaluable piece for collectors and naturalists alike.
Framing Tips: For an elegant display, consider framing it with a classic frame and a neutral mat to complement the intricate patterns and earthy tones of the fish. An ideal choice for natural history collections or coastal-themed interiors, this lithograph beautifully celebrates the diversity of Scandinavian aquatic life.
