"The Orf"

This beautiful book of fishes created by Marcus Elieser Bloch, was printed almost simultaneously in Germany (Berlin: 1782-95) and France (Paris: 1785-87). Entitled, Ichtyologie ou Histoire Naturelle des Poissons, it contained 432 wonderfully hand-colored copper plate engavings of various fish, some heightened in silver or gold leaf. The volume contained no text. The fish were identified by name in French, German, English and Latin on the prints which assured the book of a wide audience and large distribution.  These prints have long been admired and collected for their outstanding color and skillful delineation.

10 1/2 x 16 3/4 inches sheet
Copperplate engraving with full original hand color
Excellent original condition