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Sticklebacks and Pipefish - Graceful and Intricate Scandinavian Fish Litho, 1895
£240 ($315, €280)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1895
- Size
- 13 × 10.6 in (33 × 27 cm)
- Condition
- Good. The print is preserved in very good condition, with vibrant colors and crisp details that remain well preserved over time.
- Period
- Late 19th century
- Artist or book
- The von Wright brothers
- Section
- Fish and shells
- Reference
- f_44161642
Sticklebacks and Pipefish - Graceful and Intricate Scandinavian Fish Lithograph
This exquisite 19th-century lithograph from *Skandinaviens Fiskar* features a fascinating array of small, slender fish species from Scandinavian waters: the Three-Spined Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), the Nine-Spined Stickleback (Gasterosteus pungitius), the Sea Stickleback (Spinachia vulgaris), and the Straight-Nosed Pipefish (Syngnathus acus). Illustrated with remarkable precision by Wilhelm von Wright and C. Erdmann, and published by P. A. Norstedt & Söners Förlag in Stockholm, this plate captures both the graceful forms and delicate details of these remarkable species.
At the top left, the Three-Spined Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) is depicted with its characteristic sharp dorsal spines and a sleek, metallic-blue body. The fine line work and subtle shading create a lifelike appearance, highlighting its agile and resilient nature. Known for their remarkable nesting behavior and aggressive defense of territory during the breeding season, these small fish are common in both fresh and brackish waters.
Next to it, the Nine-Spined Stickleback (Gasterosteus pungitius) features a more slender body and numerous sharp spines along its back. The coloration is more subdued compared to the Three-Spined variety, with earthy, olive-green tones that blend seamlessly into their natural habitats of streams and estuaries. The carefully rendered scales and delicate fin structure reflect the fish's evolutionary adaptations for protection and agility.
Below these sticklebacks, the Sea Stickleback (Spinachia vulgaris) stands out with its elongated form and pronounced dorsal spines. The yellowish-green body with darker mottling reflects its natural camouflage, helping it blend into seagrass beds and coastal shallows. The intricate details of the spines and fins are skillfully illustrated, showcasing the artist’s mastery in portraying the fish’s unique structure.
On the right side of the plate, the Straight-Nosed Pipefish (Syngnathus acus) is displayed with its long, slender body and tube-like snout. The smooth, elongated form and segmented texture are rendered with exquisite accuracy. This fish’s unusual shape and distinctive form make it one of the more curious and delicate species among Scandinavian marine life. Known for their resemblance to seagrass, these pipefish often move slowly through shallow waters, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
The lithographic technique used in this plate seamlessly blends fine line work with subtle hand coloring, producing scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing representations. The graceful forms and meticulous detailing are a testament to both the natural diversity and artistic brilliance of the series.
The print is in very good condition, with vibrant colors and clear details that have remained intact over the years.
Framing tips: To best display its artistic and scientific appeal, consider framing it with a classic dark wood or natural-toned frame and a light mat, which will highlight the intricate line work and delicate forms. This lithograph would make an exceptional addition to any natural history collection or maritime-themed interior, celebrating the unique diversity of Scandinavian small fish and their remarkable adaptations.
