Zeewolf 1836 - 1912

Editor: So, here we have Isaac Weissenbruch's "Zeewolf," probably from sometime between 1836 and 1912, a drawing done with ink and pencil on paper. It has such a stark, almost clinical feel to it, yet there’s something quite charming about the fish. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Charming is the perfect word! You know, it reminds me of the scientific illustrations from old natural history books – a kind of detached observation mixed with the artist’s individual, slightly quirky, hand. Notice how meticulously he's rendered the scales, each little line given its due. And yet, that somewhat wonky eye! Editor: Yeah, the eye is really captivating. There are a lot of meticulously drawn aspects of it like you said, but it seems like he wasn't too serious with the illustration as a whole. Was Weissenbruch perhaps poking fun at this scientific style? Curator: It's a fascinating question. I think there's a playful quality there, perhaps. The ‘Zeewolf’ is an honest study, but it’s imbued with this feeling. Did you notice, it almost looks like the fish has a little smirk? Editor: I didn’t before, but now I do. Looking at all of the small quirks reminds me that illustrations don't always need to be hyper-accurate or super-serious to teach people something. It gives personality to the field! Curator: Exactly! Art has that power—to humanize and bring curiosity into even the most scientific endeavors. The "Zeewolf", in its own way, makes you wonder, doesn't it? It's just a little drawing, but it's more profound. Editor: It really does! It makes me excited to visit and observe more sketchbook works. Thank you so much for your input!