Close-ups
Framed and on the wall
Frame and rooms are illustrations of how the print could look; the description says what is included.
Turbot and Brill - Majestic Scandinavian Flatfish Lithograph, 1895
$315 (£235, €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 in good condition, with vivid colors and crisp details that have stood the test of time.
- Period
- Late 19th century
- Artist or book
- The von Wright brothers
- Section
- Fish and shells
- Reference
- f_44137912
- Colour
- Hand coloured
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.
Turbot and Brill - Majestic Scandinavian Flatfish Lithograph
This beautiful 19th-century lithograph from 'Skandinaviens Fiskar' showcases two iconic Scandinavian flatfish species: the Turbot (Bothus maximus) and the Brill (Bothus rhombus). Illustrated by Wilhelm von Wright, this remarkable piece captures the unique morphology and textured appearance of these valuable and prized fish. Published by P. A. Norstedt & Söners Förlag in Stockholm, this lithograph exemplifies the harmony between scientific accuracy and aesthetic elegance.
At the top of the print, the Turbot (Bothus maximus) is depicted with its characteristic diamond-shaped body, covered with rough, knobby tubercles that give it a rugged texture. The dark, almost charcoal-brown coloration reflects its natural camouflage abilities, allowing it to blend seamlessly into sandy and muddy seabeds. Turbots are known for their asymmetrical shape and distinctive eye placement, both accurately and meticulously rendered in this lithograph. As one of the most esteemed flatfish in Scandinavian waters, the Turbot’s realistic portrayal reflects its significance in both culinary and commercial contexts.
Beneath the Turbot lies the Brill (Bothus rhombus), slightly more oval in shape and exhibiting a smoother, more even texture compared to the Turbot. The mottled brown and olive-green patterning blends naturally with its bottom-dwelling habitat. The fine detailing on the lateral line and the faint speckling throughout the body demonstrate Wilhelm von Wright’s commitment to scientific accuracy and artistic finesse. Known for its tender and flavorful flesh, the Brill is a highly regarded species among European seafood lovers.
The lithographic technique employed in this plate masterfully combines fine line work with vivid hand coloring, bringing both species to life with remarkable depth and realism. The intricate patterns and natural hues of the flatfish are rendered with a keen eye for detail, capturing the tactile quality of their rough, textured surfaces. This blend of artistic skill and scientific precision makes *Skandinaviens Fiskar* an enduring classic in natural history illustration.
The print is in good condition, with vivid colors and crisp details that have stood the test of time.
Framing Tips: For optimal display, consider using a classic, neutral-toned frame with a lightly textured mat to enhance the natural beauty and rustic character of the fish. This lithograph is a stunning addition to any natural history collection or coastal-themed interior, celebrating the remarkable diversity of Scandinavian marine life.
