Antique Print of the Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) – Gaimard, 1842
Description: This powerful hand-colored lithograph depicts the Atlantic Wolffish (*Anarhichas lupus*), here titled *L’Anarrhique Loup*. Native to the cold waters of the North Atlantic around Iceland and Greenland, the species is noted for its elongated body and fearsome dentition, adapted to crush hard-shelled prey such as crustaceans, mollusks, and sea urchins.
The illustration shows the fish in full profile, its body marked with subtle bands of green and brown, and its dorsal fin extending along most of its length. The open mouth reveals its impressive teeth, a feature highlighted further by the supplementary anatomical vignette of the jaws below. The rendering combines artistic drama with zoological accuracy, emphasizing the distinctive morphology of this unusual fish.
This plate was published in *Voyage en Islande et au Groenland* (Paris, 1842), Paul Gaimard’s richly illustrated record of his 1835 expedition. While the official purpose of the voyage had been to search for Jean de Blosseville’s lost Arctic expedition, its outcome was instead a comprehensive survey of the natural history and culture of Iceland and Greenland. The zoological plates, such as this depiction of the Wolffish, are among the most striking images from the series.
The artwork was drawn by Louis Bévalet, one of France’s leading natural history illustrators, and lithographed by J. Bernard. Hand coloring was applied with care to capture the fish’s natural tones. The result is both a scientific document and an evocative piece of decorative art, appealing to collectors of ichthyology, Arctic exploration, and 19th-century natural history.
Condition report: Excellent impression with strong original hand coloring. Wide margins with some scattered foxing and mild toning, primarily in the background, not affecting the image. Plate mark visible.
Framing tips: A dark wood or walnut frame with a cream or ivory mat will emphasize the rich green tones of the fish. For a more dramatic presentation, a double mat with a deep blue or grey inner border can enhance the marine subject matter.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Drawn by Louis Bévalet, lithographed by J. Bernard – from Paul Gaimard, Paris, 1842
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