The Black Muray (Muraenae helenae varietas)

published 1731-1743

Mark Catesby

Associated Names
Mark Catesby

Artist, English, 1679 - 1749

This is a drawing of an eel entwined with a plant resembling seaweed or coral. The image depicts the elongated body of the eel with a textured surface. The eel is coiled around and through several tall, slender branches of a plant that resembles underwater flora. The colors are subdued, with earthy tones highlighting the plant life and a darker shade for the eel. The composition is simple yet detailed, emphasizing the natural interaction between the eel and its surrounding environment.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving with hand coloring on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Dr. and Mrs. George Benjamin Green

  • Dimensions

    plate: 35.1 × 25.3 cm (13 13/16 × 9 15/16 in.)
    sheet: 50.3 × 35.5 cm (19 13/16 × 14 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1967.10.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Natural History, Vol. vol.2, no. 21

  • Series Title

    Nat. Hist. of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama Isl.:V.2,T21

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1771

  • Catesby, Mark. The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands. London: 1771.

Wikidata ID

Q65511187

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