-
"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
Ernst Haeckel was a German biologist, illustrator, and a leading figure in the popularization of evolutionary theory in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Renowned for his work in marine zoology, Haeckel’s meticulous illustrations brought the wonders of microscopic and deep-sea life to a broader audience, bridging the gap between science and art.
His seminal publication, Kunstformen der Natur, released between 1899 and 1904, showcased the extraordinary diversity of natural forms and influenced both scientific communities and the emerging Art Nouveau movement. Haeckel’s legacy endures in the way he combined scientific observation with a refined visual sensibility, establishing a new standard for natural history illustration.
The Artwork
Created at a time when natural history illustration aimed to both educate and inspire, this plate—Ctenophorae—focuses on the enigmatic comb jellies. These marine invertebrates, with their translucent bodies and rhythmic movement, fascinated nineteenth-century scientists and collectors alike. Haeckel’s intent was to reveal the complexity and beauty of these lesser-known ocean dwellers, highlighting their role in the broader tapestry of marine life.
The artwork reflects a period when visual documentation was essential for scientific understanding and public engagement. By carefully selecting and arranging different species, Haeckel invited viewers to appreciate the diversity and structure of marine organisms. For more on this intersection of science and art, explore our science wall art.
Style & Characteristics
Set against a crisp white background, the comb jellies are depicted in luminous shades of blue, with subtle gradients that evoke their natural translucence. Fine, precise linework captures the delicate ribs and trailing filaments, giving each form a sense of weightlessness and fluidity.
The composition arranges multiple specimens in a balanced, almost symmetrical layout, encouraging close study and comparison. The overall mood is serene and slightly otherworldly, characteristic of Haeckel’s approach to marine illustration. This scientific print pairs beautifully with our sea and ocean prints and coordinates well with blue tone wall decor.
In Interior Design
This artwork lends a sense of calm and curiosity to spaces such as home offices, libraries, or hallways where thoughtful detail is appreciated. Its clean lines and cool palette complement minimalist, Scandinavian, and contemporary interiors, while the marine subject matter suits coastal-inspired rooms without being overtly thematic.
Display it on a white or pale grey wall to enhance its clarity, or pair it with light wood and glass accents for a modern gallery effect. The print’s refined aesthetic makes it a sophisticated choice for science enthusiasts and collectors of vintage natural history art.