A Fine Victorian Colour Lithograph: ‘The Longer Sunfish’ London, 1884

A Fine Victorian Colour Lithograph: ‘The Longer Sunfish’

From Jonathan Couch’s A History of the Fishes of the British Islands Published: London, 1884

A striking and anatomically curious original colour lithograph from the definitive 1884 edition of Jonathan Couch’s seminal work. This plate depicts the elusive Longer Sunfish, rendered with the vibrant saturation and atmospheric depth characteristic of peak Victorian colour printing.

Key Features:

• Scientific Artistry: Couch’s work is renowned for balancing empirical accuracy with a romantic, almost folk-art aesthetic. The fish is rendered with a metallic sheen and subtle tonal shifts that mimic its natural skin.

• Peak Victorian Lithography: Originating from the 1884 edition, this print benefits from the advanced colour-layering techniques of the late 19th century, resulting in a depth of colour not seen in earlier, hand-coloured versions.

• The "Aesthetic" Frame: Housed in a rare, substantial Victorian deep ebony frame. This "shadow box" style provides a sophisticated, somber border that was a hallmark of high-end Aesthetic Movement interiors.

• Curated Specimen Appeal: The extreme depth of the frame (9 cm) elevates the piece from a simple print to a curated specimen, reminiscent of a Victorian gentleman's library or private museum.

Dealer’s Comment

"The 'Longer Sunfish' is a designer’s favourite due to its eccentric, almost modern silhouette. What truly sets this example apart is the Victorian deep ebony frame. The depth of the moulding creates a wonderful sense of gravitas, making it feel less like a flat print and more like a curated specimen from a 19th-century gentleman's library. It is a perfect 'Cabinet of Curiosities' piece."

Condition Report

The lithograph is in very good original condition, with the colours remaining bright and saturated. The paper shows light, natural age-toning consistent with its 140-year history.

The Victorian deep ebony frame is in excellent structural condition. It retains its original dark, lustrous finish with only minor surface marks that attest to its period authenticity. The glazing is clear, and the piece is ready for immediate display.

Measurement

Height:            33 cm /      13 inch

Width:             38 cm /      15 inch

Depth:             9 cm /         3.5 inch

Weight:           1.2 k.g. /     2.6 lbs