Octopus — from the Deutschen Tiefsee-Expedition (1898–1899) by Carl Chun
All sinew and arabesque. This classic deep-sea plate turns an octopus into pure design—coiling arms, studded suckers, and a lantern-lit mantle rendered with scientific poise. It’s the romance of oceanography: precise, elegant, and quietly thrilling on the wall.
Why it captivates
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Historic ocean science — a showpiece from Germany’s trailblazing deep-sea survey.
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Graphic drama — sculptural arms and stippled textures that read beautifully at any distance.
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Natural curves — biology arranged like ornament, equal parts data and art.
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Versatile palette — calm neutrals with subtle colour notes suit modern or classic interiors.
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Conversation starter — marine biology meets Belle-Époque print culture.
What you’ll see
A carefully observed octopus in full spread: eight spiralling arms sequenced with neat suckers, a smooth mantle, and delicate webbing between limbs. Clean labeling and plate numerals give the sheet its scholarly poise—order, texture, and motion distilled.
A richer historical frame
Produced for the German Deep-Sea Expedition (1898–1899), directed by zoologist Carl Chun, these plates brought the hidden Atlantic and Indian Oceans to a wider public. They marry taxonomic clarity to the era’s refined lithography—turning newly documented life into images of lasting beauty.
Choose your finish
🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp detail, minimal glare.
💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—great for kitchens, studios, and classrooms.
🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.
🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich tone and fine gradations.
🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.
Size (W × H)
577 × 841 mm (approx. 22.72 × 33.11 in)
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Orientation: Portrait
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Aspect ratio: ~0.686 : 1 (≈ 11 : 16)
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Nearest standard frame: A1 (594 × 841 mm) — portrait with a custom mat window cut to ~573 × 837 mm (2–3 mm overlap).
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Framing tips:
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Classic: warm off-white mat, slim black or walnut moulding.
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Contemporary: float-mount in A1 for a crisp shadow gap and visible plate border.
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Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or added white border).
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Octopus — Deutschen Tiefsee-Expedition (German Deep-Sea Expedition) |
| Attribution | Carl Chun, 1898–1899 |
| Historical Context | Late-19th-century oceanographic plate; scientific illustration meets fine lithography |
| Print Size | 577 mm (W) × 841 mm (H) |
| Available Finishes | Paper, Laminated, Laminated + Timber Hang Rails, Canvas, Canvas + Timber Hang Rails |
| Paper Weight | 160 gsm archival matte |
| Laminate | 2 × 80-micron gloss (true encapsulation) |
| Canvas Weight | 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas |
| Inks | Pigment-based, fade-resistant |
| Optional Hang Rails | Natural timber, lacquered; fitted hanging cord (allow up to 10 working days) |
| Origin | Printed in Australia |
Who it’s for
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Natural-history lovers and marine-life enthusiasts
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Designers & stylists seeking elegant organic geometry
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Educators & students of zoology and illustration
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Gift-givers after a cultured, conversation-starting print
Our Commitment
Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.
Let deep-sea elegance surface in your space—order your Octopus print today.
