Sparus Cynodon - The Dogs Tooth

by Marcus Elieser Bloch

Go back to the time of the Enlightenment with this fantastic artwork created by German physician and naturalist Marcus Elieser Bloch in the 18th century. From Bloch's famous encyclopedia work on ichthyology comes this beautiful historical plate depicting the Sparus Cynodon – also known as Dogs Tooth Fish or Twinspot Snapper.

Not only is this not a scientific diagram, but it also served as the link between taxonomy and art of the highest degree. This beautiful plate displays all the unique characteristics of the fish from its canine teeth to its brilliant blue eye to the red gradients of its fins and the unique pattern of overlapping scales. All the lines on the plate come from an intricate copperplate engraving, which was enhanced with hand-painted watercolors that capture the beauty of marine life.