Gadus Molva - The Ling

by Marcus Elieser Bloch

Explore the golden age of natural history through this magnificent hand-colored copperplate engraving of Gadus Molva, otherwise referred to as the Common Ling. This rare print was illustrated by German physician and naturalist, Marcus Elieser Bloch for his groundbreaking work "Ichthyologie, ou Histoire Naturelle, Generale et Particuliere des Poissons." It is a perfect representation of the science of illustration during the 18th century.

This rare print illustrating the Common Ling—a deep-water gadid fish closely related to the cod—is famous for its breath-taking precision and accuracy, and the metallic touch effect created by the use of silver and metal dusting. Each print is a unique piece of marine biology history that can serve as an excellent addition to a fine art collection and other similar places.