The Croker (Perca undulata)
1737
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1737
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows two fish drawn side by side, their bodies painted in warm reds and browns. The top fish has a spiky fin and a yellow eye, while the bottom one has a bright red belly and darker fins. Both are detailed with careful brushstrokes, giving them a textured look. The fish are labeled with Latin names, which was common for scientific illustrations. This style was used to study and record nature accurately. Next, check out the technique: etching to see how artists like this made precise, detailed prints.
