From Fischbuch (Latin Edition)
Conrad Gesner
Latin edition, 1620
Woodcuts on a single folio leaf
Later hand coloring
This large folio leaf depicting halibut and flatfish originates from the 1620 Latin edition of Conrad Gesner’s Fischbuch, one of the most influential works in the early history of ichthyology. Although first issued in the mid-sixteenth century, Gesner’s fish studies continued to be reprinted well into the seventeenth century due to their scholarly authority and enduring relevance.
Gesner was among the great polymaths of the Renaissance, active as a physician, philosopher, bibliographer, philologist, and natural historian. His approach to marine life represented a decisive shift away from symbolic and mythic traditions toward systematic observation and comparison. Flatfish were of particular interest to early naturalists because of their unusual morphology, asymmetry, and benthic habitat, which challenged inherited classification systems.
The woodcuts for the Fischbuch were executed by Hans Asper, Johann Thomas, and Lukas Schrön, whose restrained and descriptive style emphasized structure, proportion, and distinguishing characteristics. The present example has been hand colored at a later date, enhancing contrast and visual presence while preserving the integrity of the original woodcuts. Each hand-colored impression is unique.
Latin editions of Gesner’s Fischbuch were intended for an international scholarly audience and played a critical role in disseminating Renaissance natural history beyond German-speaking regions. This folio stands as a foundational document in the visual history of marine science and remains highly sought after for its scale, clarity, and intellectual importance.
Good overall condition. Some staining to the upper left margin consistent with age and use. Please view images carefully.
Nissen, Fischbücher 59
Medium: Woodcuts with later hand coloring
Format: Folio leaf
Date: 1620
Dimensions: 15.24 × 9.13 inches (38.7 × 23.2 cm)
Subjects: Halibut, Flatfish, Ichthyology
Status: Available
From Fischbuch (Latin Edition)
Conrad Gesner
Latin edition, 1620
Woodcuts on a single folio leaf
Later hand coloring
This large folio leaf depicting halibut and flatfish originates from the 1620 Latin edition of Conrad Gesner’s Fischbuch, one of the most influential works in the early history of ichthyology. Although first issued in the mid-sixteenth century, Gesner’s fish studies continued to be reprinted well into the seventeenth century due to their scholarly authority and enduring relevance.
Gesner was among the great polymaths of the Renaissance, active as a physician, philosopher, bibliographer, philologist, and natural historian. His approach to marine life represented a decisive shift away from symbolic and mythic traditions toward systematic observation and comparison. Flatfish were of particular interest to early naturalists because of their unusual morphology, asymmetry, and benthic habitat, which challenged inherited classification systems.
The woodcuts for the Fischbuch were executed by Hans Asper, Johann Thomas, and Lukas Schrön, whose restrained and descriptive style emphasized structure, proportion, and distinguishing characteristics. The present example has been hand colored at a later date, enhancing contrast and visual presence while preserving the integrity of the original woodcuts. Each hand-colored impression is unique.
Latin editions of Gesner’s Fischbuch were intended for an international scholarly audience and played a critical role in disseminating Renaissance natural history beyond German-speaking regions. This folio stands as a foundational document in the visual history of marine science and remains highly sought after for its scale, clarity, and intellectual importance.
Good overall condition. Some staining to the upper left margin consistent with age and use. Please view images carefully.
Nissen, Fischbücher 59
Medium: Woodcuts with later hand coloring
Format: Folio leaf
Date: 1620
Dimensions: 15.24 × 9.13 inches (38.7 × 23.2 cm)
Subjects: Halibut, Flatfish, Ichthyology
Status: Available
