Antique Print of Gaimard’s Ray (La Raie de Gaimard) – 1842
This superb hand-colored lithograph depicts La Raie de Gaimard (Raja gaimardi), a species of skate named in honor of the French naturalist Paul Gaimard. The fish is presented in full dorsal view, its wide body and extended pectoral fins spreading like wings. The lithograph captures the intricate textures of its skin, with mottled brown and cream patterns, and emphasizes its elongated tail with spiny ridges and small fins. The careful rendering of the eyes and spiracles adds to the lifelike quality of the image.
The plate was published in *Voyage en Islande et au Groenland* (Paris, 1842), documenting the 1835 expedition led by Gaimard. While the official aim of the voyage was to search for Jean de Blosseville’s missing expedition, it became one of the most significant scientific surveys of Iceland and Greenland in the 19th century. The zoological section contained some of the most detailed early illustrations of Arctic marine life, including rare species such as this ray.
The illustration was drawn by Louis Bévalet and lithographed by J. Bernard, with hand coloring applied to enhance the natural hues. This collaboration produced plates of exceptional clarity and artistry, uniting zoological accuracy with visual refinement. Among the ichthyological plates of Gaimard’s work, the Ray is particularly admired for its striking form and decorative appeal, making it a centerpiece in collections of natural history prints.
Condition report: Excellent impression with vivid hand coloring. Wide margins with minor foxing and light toning, primarily in the background, not affecting the figure. Plate mark clearly visible.
Framing tips: A striking specimen for display, best framed in a black or walnut frame with an ivory mat. For a more dramatic effect, a double mat with a soft blue or sea-green inner line will highlight its marine subject and enhance its decorative value.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Drawn by Louis Bévalet, lithographed by J. Bernard – from Paul Gaimard, Paris, 1842
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