About the Artist
Charles Dessalines D'Orbigny was a nineteenth-century French naturalist and illustrator whose meticulous work advanced the study of zoology. Working during a period of scientific exploration and classification, D'Orbigny contributed detailed plates to important reference volumes, helping to document and standardize knowledge about animal species for both scholars and the public.
His illustrations remain valued today for their clarity and precision, bridging the gap between scientific documentation and visual artistry. D'Orbigny's legacy endures in collections of science prints and animal wall art, where his approach continues to inspire admiration.
The Artwork
This crustacean illustration was created in the mid-1800s, a time when naturalists sought to catalog marine life with unprecedented accuracy. Such works were intended for scientific publications, providing reliable visual references for researchers and educators. The focus on crustaceans reflects the era's fascination with marine biodiversity and the desire to distinguish species through careful observation.
Produced as part of a broader effort to document the natural world, this plate exemplifies the intersection of scientific inquiry and artistic skill, making it a classic example of nineteenth-century natural history illustration. It fits seamlessly alongside other sea and ocean posters in any curated collection.
Style & Characteristics
The artwork features a single crimson-hued crustacean, centrally positioned against a pale, uncluttered background. Fine, precise linework captures the segmented body, delicate legs, and long antennae, while subtle shading adds depth and realism. The composition is straightforward and specimen-like, emphasizing anatomical detail over decorative flourish.
The restrained palette and scientific clarity evoke a calm, studious mood, characteristic of academic plates from this era. The result is a refined scientific print that balances educational purpose with understated elegance.
In Interior Design
This vintage scientific print is ideal for spaces that celebrate curiosity and detail, such as studies, libraries, or creative workspaces. Its crisp lines and open background allow it to complement both minimalist and classic interiors, especially when paired with natural wood or black frames.
For a cohesive look, combine it with other classic-art prints or group it with related marine illustrations for a gallery wall that nods to the traditions of natural history and exploration.
