Oceanography by Adolphe Millot 1890
Oceanography by Adolphe Millot 1890
Oceanography by Adolphe Millot is a superbly detailed Victorian zoological illustration, first published in 1890 for the celebrated French encyclopedia “Le Larousse pour tous: nouveau dictionnaire encyclopédique”. In this vibrant and meticulously rendered print, Millot captures the astounding diversity found in the world’s oceans, depicted through an array of zoologically accurate marine species. Each creature is labeled in French, creating an artwork that functions both as a scientific record and as a work of art—a hallmark of Millot’s renowned career as a scientific illustrator.
This fine art print, presented by The Unique Maps Co., is available as a premium reproduction on acid-free archival paper or cotton artist’s canvas. You may choose from a range of sizes and select optional framing to best suit your space. Personalization and customization options allow you to tailor the look for your collection, making it a distinctive feature within any room or study.
Adolphe Philippe Millot (1857–1921) was a lauded French painter, lithographer, and eminent entomologist, whose illustrations of natural history for “Petit Larousse” and his position as senior illustrator at the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle established his legacy. Millot’s prestige extended to the art world, where he exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Française (rising to an honoured mention in 1891) and actively participated in the Société entomologique de France. His meticulous hand and scientific knowledge impart a sense of authenticity and timelessness to each work.
This particular illustration stands out not only for its scientific accuracy but for the breadth of aquatic life it presents. Each species receives sensitive attention to detail, including the following:
- Melonocetus (Melanocetus) – Deep-sea Anglerfish
- Astropecten (Astropecten) – Sand Star
- Macrourus (Macrourus) – Grenadier Fish or Rattail
- Antedon (Antedon) – Feather Star
- Lepidopus (Lepidopus) – Silver Scabbardfish
- Caryophyllia (Caryophyllia) – Cup Coral
- Lophohelia (Lophohelia) – Deep-sea Reef Coral (commonly Lophelia)
- Periphylla (Periphylla) – Helmet Jellyfish
- Asterophyton (Asterophyton) – Basket Star
- Munida (Munida) – Squat Lobster
- Hyalonema (Hyalonema) – Glass Rope Sponge
- Bathypterois (Bathypterois) – Tripod Fish
- Ophidium (Ophidium) – Cusk-eel
- Umbellularia (Umbellularia) – Sea Pen
- Scopelus (Scopelus) – Lanternfish
- Funiculina (Funiculina) – Tall Sea Pen
- Polycheles (Polycheles) – Blind Lobster
- Mopsea (Mopsea) – Deep-water Gorgonian Coral
- Pentacrinus (Pentacrinus) – Sea Lily (Stalked Crinoid)
- Holothuria (Holothuria) – Sea Cucumber
- Isis (Isis) – Bamboo Coral
- Enchelyopus (Enchelyopus) – Four-bearded Rockling
- Aphyonus (Aphyonus) – Deep-sea Eel-like Fish (Aphyonid Fish)
- Euryale (Euryale) – Basket Star (Gorgon's Head)
- Fungia (Fungia) – Mushroom Coral
- Euplectella (Euplectella) – Venus' Flower Basket (Glass Sponge)
The gentle palette of oceanic blues and greens, filtered with touches of gold and chestnut, is characteristic of the illustration’s Victorian origins, balancing naturalism with decorative style. The delicate ink work and careful gradations capture the changing textures between skin, scale, and shell. Whether for lovers of natural history, Francophiles, or admirers of classic scientific art, this print brings a touch of refined Victorian adventure and erudition to interiors—a striking blend of knowledge, elegance, and graphic beauty.
Perfect as a sophisticated housewarming present, a special birthday or Mother’s Day gift, or an inspired Christmas surprise, “Oceanography” brings marine majesty to any wall. With its bright imagery and scientific depth, it delights collectors and casual observers alike, making it a cherished addition to any art or nature lover’s home.
If you're not sure what size to order, or you're looking for a custom order of some kind – a different size, a different colour, a special frame – then please contact me. I usually respond within a few minutes.
You can see an example of my fine art personalisation service in the fifth image. Zoom in and take a look. My personalised artwork is always very well received. Take a look at more examples of personalisation.
You can also choose to age your art print to make it look older. This is popular amongst my customers who want their artwork to look like an older, antique print. You can see an example of ageing in the sixth product image, or go ahead and check out lots of examples of other aged artwork.
The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this art print.
I can print and frame this beautiful piece of art at sizes up to 3 metres (10ft). If you are looking for a size or framing option that isn't available online, please get in touch.
This artwork is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. My standard frames come in six colours (black, dark brown, dark grey, antique gold, oak and white), and custom framing is available for an additional charge. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.