Antique Print of the Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus) – Gaimard, 1842
Description: This rare hand-colored lithograph illustrates the Greenland Shark (*Somniosus microcephalus*), one of the most remarkable deep-water predators of the North Atlantic. Known in French as *Le Lémargue Boréal*, this species inhabits the icy waters around Iceland and Greenland, where it can live for several centuries, making it one of the longest-lived vertebrates on earth.
The plate depicts the shark in full profile, rendered in a soft bluish-grey tone, with fine detailing of its gills, fins, and elongated body. Surrounding studies include detailed drawings of its teeth, the structure of its jaws, and the unique patterning of its skin. These supplementary scientific illustrations highlight the zoological accuracy of the work, bridging the gap between art and taxonomy.
Published in *Voyage en Islande et au Groenland* (Paris, 1842), this plate belongs to the zoological section of Paul Gaimard’s expedition report. The 1835 voyage, though officially intended to search for the missing expedition of Jean de Blosseville, produced one of the richest scientific surveys of Iceland and Greenland. The natural history illustrations, including this Greenland Shark, stand among the earliest detailed depictions of Arctic marine life.
The artwork was prepared by Louis Bévalet, a skilled French natural history illustrator, and lithographed by J. Bernard with hand coloring applied to enhance accuracy. Together, their work captured not only the external appearance of the shark but also its anatomical features, making it an invaluable document for 19th-century ichthyology.
Today, this print is especially prized among collectors of marine history, Arctic exploration, and natural history art. The Greenland Shark, a mysterious and long-lived species, continues to fascinate scientists and the public alike.
Condition report: Strong impression with excellent tonal detail. Wide margins present, with light age toning and scattered foxing, mostly in the background, not affecting the image. Plate mark clearly visible.
Framing tips: A black or dark oak frame with a wide ivory or light grey mat will enhance the tonal subtleties of the shark’s body. For a bolder presentation, a double mat with a fine navy blue inner border will underscore the marine subject.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Drawn by Louis Bévalet, lithographed by J. Bernard – from Paul Gaimard, Paris, 1842
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