Marine Fish Print: Swordfish, Anglerfish, Tuna & Pipefish – Antique 1867
This striking antique print depicts a wide variety of marine fish, including swordfish, anglerfish, tuna, pipefish, and exotic deep-sea species, rendered in detailed hand-coloured engravings. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, and published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Created as an educational tool, this plate introduced 19th-century students to ocean fish diversity and the anatomical features of unusual marine species.
The labelled figures include:
1. Dragonet (Callionymidae species) 2. Goby (Gobiidae species) 3. Stargazer (Uranoscopus scaber) 4. Anglerfish (Lophius piscatorius) 5. Sand smelt (Atherina boyeri) 6. European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) 7. Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) 8. Righteye flounder (Pleuronectidae species) 9. Rockfish (Sebastes species) 10. Sculpin (Cottidae species) 11. Stickleback (Gasterosteidae species) 12. Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) 13. Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) 14. Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) 15. Pilot fish (Naucrates ductor) 16. Moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus) 17. Gourami (Osphronemidae species) 18. Blenny (Blenniidae species) 19. Armoured catfish (Loricariidae species) 20. Pipefish (Syngnathinae species)
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print shows precise anatomical lines and naturalistic shading, bringing each species to life with accurate scale patterns, fin shapes, and characteristic colours. These plates were essential teaching aids in schools and libraries before photographic marine field guides were widely available.
Condition summary: Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Framing tips: Frame this marine fish print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its detailed engravings and subtle oceanic tones. For traditional interiors, a gold frame adds warmth and antique character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the colours and prevent further toning. This antique zoological print will enrich any marine art collection, educational interior, or natural history gallery with timeless scientific beauty and decorative intrigue.
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