Haddock, Gadus Æglefinus
1803
Edward Donovan captures the sleek profile of a Haddock with scientific precision, highlighting that famous dark spot just behind the gills. Legend has it that this mark is the thumbprint of St. Peter, who supposedly pulled a coin from a Haddock's mouth! Published in the early 1800s as part of a grand survey of British fish, these illustrations were crucial for naturalists before photography existed. The delicate shading on the scales and the bright yellow eye bring this specimen to life, serving as both a scientific record and a beautiful piece of natural history art.