The Aquarium

"The Aquarium" (1878) is the first title in Émile Reynaud’s first series of praxinoscope strips and may therefore claim the distinction of being the earliest animation exhibited that was purpose-built for motion display. Reynaud’s decision to debut his invention at the Paris Exhibition with this work highlights his commitment to animation as an artistic medium. While the movements of the fisher-girl and the fish are relatively complex, they are eclipsed by the setting itself. Immersed in water, the fish and hook allow Reynaud to explore colour and optical illusion, creating a scene that impresses not through novelty alone but through painterly skill. Nearly a century and a half later, the work remains remarkably fresh.