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Scandinavian Herring and Shad: Exquisite Lithograph from Pisces Scandinaviae
£235 ($315, €280)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- Not stated
- Size
- 13 × 10.6 in (33 × 27 cm)
- Condition
- Good. The print is in very good condition, with vibrant colors and no significant damage. The dark background remains uniform and unblemished, enhancing the clarity of the fish depictions.
- Section
- Fish and shells
- Reference
- f_44176872
- Color
- Hand colored
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.
Title: Scandinavian Herring and Shad: Exquisite Lithograph from Pisces Scandinaviae
Description:
This stunning lithograph from the Pisces Scandinaviae series, created by C. Erdmann, showcases two iconic fish species native to Scandinavian waters: the Clupea harengus (Atlantic herring) and Clupea alosa (Allis shad). The print masterfully combines scientific accuracy with artistic elegance, reflecting the dedication of 19th-century natural history illustrators to capturing the natural world in meticulous detail.
The technique used in this lithograph is a combination of fine line drawing and skilled hand-coloring. The lithographic method allows for precise contours and shading, while the application of watercolors enhances the natural texture and subtle coloration of the fish. The dark background adds a dramatic contrast, emphasizing the silvery sheen of the fish and lending a sense of depth to the composition.
The Atlantic herring, depicted at the top, is one of the most economically important fish species in the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea. Its characteristic elongated body, blue-gray back, and silvery flanks are rendered with remarkable realism, highlighting its streamlined shape adapted for fast swimming. The fine detailing of the scales and the subtle gradient of the coloration are executed with great care.
The Allis shad, positioned below, shares a similar body shape but is distinguished by its larger size and more robust build. Known for its migratory habits, the Allis shad spends most of its life at sea before returning to freshwater to spawn. The lithograph captures the slight differences between the two species with precision, showcasing the artist's expertise in natural history illustration.
This piece stands out not only for its scientific value but also for its aesthetic appeal. The balanced composition and subtle use of color reflect a harmonious blend of nature and art. The combination of a detailed study and an eye-catching presentation makes this lithograph an exceptional example of 19th-century ichthyological artwork.
Condition summary:
The print is in very good condition, with vibrant colors and no significant damage. The dark background remains uniform and unblemished, enhancing the clarity of the fish depictions.
Framing tips:
Opt for a dark wood or black frame to complement the contrasting background and accentuate the bright silver tones of the fish. A white or light gray mat will create a balanced presentation. UV-resistant glass will preserve the colors and protect the artwork from fading.
