Cichla, Aenea
1822
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1822
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This is a black-and-white drawing of a fish. It’s side-view only, with sharp scales and a big dorsal fin. The tail is wide and forked, and the mouth looks small but pointed. The artist labeled it *Cichla, Aenea*—a scientific name, not a common one. The lines are precise, almost like an old science book sketch. If you like this style, check out lithography next.