Great Barrier Reef Corals III (1893)

William Saville-Kent's chromolithograph, "Great Barrier Reef Corals III," created in 1893, offers a vivid and meticulously detailed glimpse into the rich diversity of coral species found in one of the world's most spectacular marine habitats. This illustration, part of a larger work intended to study and catalogue marine life, showcases a variety of coral forms and colors, each numbered and arranged neatly for study and appreciation.The image is carefully composed to represent the corals not just as scientific specimens, but also as objects of natural beauty. It features a range of coral types, from the branching and tree-like to the bulbous and distinctly textured. The palette employed is naturally vibrant, with hues of yellow, pink, green, and blue dominating the scene, reflecting the real-life vibrancy found beneath the sea surface at the Great Barrier Reef.Each coral type is rendered with attention to its unique structure and texture, demonstrating Saville-Kent’s dedication to both scientific accuracy and artistic elegance. This combination of science and art makes the illustration not only an important document for biological and environmental research, but also a captivating visual piece that draws interest to the delicate ecosystem of the reef."Great Barrier Reef Corals III" serves as a testament to the early efforts in marine conservation and biological documentation. It invites viewers to marvel at the beauty of the undersea world and reflects the pioneering spirit of oceanographic exploration during Saville-Kent's time.