4547 Marcus Elieser Bloch (1723–1799) – Gymnotus Electricus (Electric Eel) – Hand-Coloured Engraving – 1785
This striking hand-coloured engraving features Gymnotus Electricus, the South American electric eel, rendered in a powerful arched pose with coppery brown tones and fine anatomical detail. Above the figure is a smaller outline diagram of the fish’s electrical organ. The illustration was published in Marcus Elieser Bloch’s foundational work Allgemeine Naturgeschichte der Fische, one of the most comprehensive 18th-century ichthyological publications, combining scientific taxonomy with meticulous and elegant illustration.
Marcus Elieser Bloch (1723–1799) was a pioneering German physician and naturalist celebrated for his twelve-volume study of fishes from around the world. His work blended Enlightenment science with exceptional artistic execution, and remains a key reference in ichthyology and scientific illustration. The electric eel, shown here with scientific accuracy and vivid realism, exemplifies Bloch’s dedication to anatomical fidelity and visual clarity.
Artist or Maker:
Marcus Elieser Bloch (1723–1799)
Dimensions:
27 cm x 46 cm
Medium:
Hand-Coloured Engraving
Date:
1785
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Värdering | 400 - 600 SEK |
| Köparprovision (inkl. moms) | 25% |
| Slagavgift (inkl. moms) | 6 SEK |
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