The Great Barrier Reef of Australia

Original antique coral and marine life prints, together with a map of the Queensland coast, illustrate William Saville-Kent’...

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Original antique coral and marine life prints, together with a map of the Queensland coast, illustrate William Saville-Kent’s The Great Barrier Reef of Australia (1893). A marine biologist who studied the reef first-hand, Saville-Kent recorded its living colours and extraordinary variety in detailed drawings and watercolours. The collection includes vivid chromolithographs of branching corals, sea anemones, starfish, sea cucumbers and tropical fish, alongside monochrome fish illustrations. Parrotfish and anemonefish provide striking contrasts with the intricate forms of the corals. Combining scientific observation with decorative appeal, these Victorian prints offer an early visual record of Australia’s reef life, with subjects suited to individual display or a coordinated group.

Original antique coral and marine life prints, together with a map of the Queensland coast, illustrate William Saville-Kent’s The Great Barrier Reef of Australia (1893). A marine biologist who studied the reef first-hand, Saville-Kent recorded its living colours and extraordinary variety in detailed drawings and watercolours. The collection includes vivid chromolithographs of branching corals, sea anemones, starfish, sea cucumbers and tropical fish, alongside monochrome fish illustrations. Parrotfish and anemonefish provide striking contrasts with the intricate forms of the corals. Combining scientific observation with decorative appeal, these Victorian prints offer an early visual record of Australia’s reef life, with subjects suited to individual display or a coordinated group.

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