-
"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
-
"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
-
"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Louis Renard was an 18th-century Dutch publisher and bookseller whose legacy is closely associated with the early European exploration of Southeast Asian marine life. Renard compiled and published some of the first illustrated volumes documenting exotic fish and sea creatures encountered by Dutch traders and naturalists in the East Indies, making these wonders accessible to a fascinated European public.
His works reflect the Enlightenment era’s blend of scientific curiosity and imaginative interpretation, offering readers a glimpse into distant worlds at a time when travel was limited to a privileged few. Renard’s publications remain significant for their role in shaping Western perceptions of tropical biodiversity and their enduring appeal to collectors of natural history art.
The Artwork
Produced in 1754, this plate is part of Renard’s celebrated collection depicting marine species from the waters around the Moluccas, a region famed for its rich biodiversity and importance to Dutch colonial trade. These illustrations served as both educational tools and objects of wonder, translating firsthand accounts and specimens into visual records for audiences who might never witness such creatures in person.
By combining scientific observation with artistic license, Renard’s plates bridged the gap between fact and fantasy, capturing the sense of discovery that defined the Enlightenment. For those interested in the intersection of art and science, explore more in our sea and ocean and science collections.
Style & Characteristics
This vintage print features a series of tropical fish arranged in profile, each rendered with distinctive, jewel-toned markings and stylized fins. The composition is spacious, allowing each specimen to stand out against the soft, aged paper background. The coloration is bold, with vibrant greens, reds, yellows, and blues lending the fish a fantastical quality.
Fine engraved lines define the forms, while hand-applied watercolors add depth and brilliance. The overall effect is both decorative and informative, with a playful mood that invites closer inspection. The print’s antique character and imaginative details make it a striking example of early natural history illustration.
In Interior Design
This fish print brings a touch of historic curiosity to interiors, especially when paired with light woods, natural fibers, and brass accents that echo its warm, aged tones. In a living room or study, it can evoke the spirit of a cabinet of curiosities, sparking conversation and interest.
Its palette of blues and greens pairs well with ceramics, glassware, or painted trim, while the print’s vintage charm suits eclectic kitchens and collector’s spaces. For more inspiration, browse our animal collection to find complementary natural history prints for your home.