-
"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
-
"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
-
"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Charles Dessalines d Orbigny was a 19th-century French naturalist and scientific illustrator, renowned for his contributions to zoology and paleontology. His meticulous research and illustrations supported the growing scientific movement to classify and document the natural world. Working during a period when museums and scientific societies flourished, d Orbigny played a key role in making scientific knowledge accessible through visual means.
His work reflects the intellectual spirit of his era, when illustrated reference books became essential tools for scholars and enthusiasts alike. For those interested in the intersection of art and science, discover more in our science wall art and vintage illustration collections.
The Artwork
This fish plate from 1868 embodies the 19th-century drive to systematically catalogue marine life, a pursuit fueled by coastal exploration and advances in natural history. Such prints were created as educational resources, intended to accompany scientific texts and provide accurate representations for study and comparison.
Rather than focusing on a narrative or dramatic scene, the plate offers a comparative display of various fish species, reflecting the belief in careful observation as a path to knowledge. As a vintage scientific print, it channels the atmosphere of the study cabinet and the era’s fascination with discovery.
Style & Characteristics
The composition is organized like a specimen board, with multiple fish depicted in precise profile and arranged for clarity. Fine linework captures the details of fins and scales, while subtle washes of blue, green, yellow, and touches of black add dimension without overwhelming the forms. The white background keeps the overall effect light and airy, typical of 19th-century scientific illustration.
The mood is calm and contemplative, inviting close examination. This refined sea and ocean art print balances decorative appeal with informative purpose.
In Interior Design
This vintage fish illustration lends itself beautifully to coastal-inspired interiors, whether displayed in a living room, hallway, or bathroom. Its clean layout and subtle color palette suit Scandinavian, modern, and classic settings alike.
Pair it with pale woods, white walls, and blue or green accents for a cohesive look. For a gallery wall, combine it with other animal prints to create a thoughtful, curated display that evokes the spirit of exploration and study.