Alosa (Two Shad on the Shore) - Albert Flamen

A detailed seventeenth-century etching by Albert Flamen, depicting two shad fish on a shoreline with a coastal scene in the background.

This etching by Albert Flamen depicts two shad, or alosa, resting upon a sandy shore. The composition is typical of the seventeenth-century Dutch and Flemish interest in natural history and marine subjects. Flamen, who spent much of his career in Paris, produced numerous series of prints documenting fish and birds, often combining scientific observation with artistic arrangement. The fish are rendered with precise, fine lines that capture the texture of their scales and the structure of their fins.

In the background, a coastal scene unfolds with small boats and fishing nets, providing context for the catch. The inclusion of shells in the foreground adds a sense of realism to the setting. The print bears the inscription 'B. Flamen f.' in the lower left corner, indicating the artist's hand, and 'cum priuil Regis' on the right, denoting the royal privilege granted for the publication. The work is part of a larger series, indicated by the Roman numeral 'VII' at the bottom centre. The artist employs a variety of hatching techniques to create depth and shadow, particularly on the bodies of the fish and the surrounding sand. This print reflects the period's fascination with the natural world, presenting a specimen-like study that remains accessible and visually engaging. The balance between the foreground subjects and the distant maritime activity demonstrates the technical skill of the engraver in managing spatial relationships within a small format.