Carrelet Collection

Turbot, Scophthalmus maximus, European plaice, Pleuronectes platessa, and topknot, Zeugopterus punctatus
FLO4655366 Turbot, Scophthalmus maximus, European plaice, Pleuronectes platessa, and topknot, Zeugopterus punctatus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Albert Massard after an illustration by

France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Charente-Maritime, Fouras, colourful stilt fishing huts on the Anse de Fouras

Le Vocabulaire Illustre: Carrelet; Place; Junge Scholle (engraving)
7195195 Le Vocabulaire Illustre: Carrelet; Place; Junge Scholle (engraving) by European School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Carrelet; Place; Junge Scholle)

Plaice (Pleuronectes Platessa) plate XLII from Ichthyologie
STC192745 Plaice (Pleuronectes Platessa) plate XLII from Ichthyologie, ou histoire naturelle generale et particuliere des poissons, by Marcus Elieser Bloch (1723-99)

Turbot, European plaice and topknot
Turbot, Scophthalmus maximus, European plaice, Pleuronectes platessa, and topknot, Zeugopterus punctatus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Albert Massard after an illustration by Jean-Gabriel

Dover sole, Solea solea, European plaice, Pleuronectes platessa, and common dab, Limanda limanda
6338798 Dover sole, Solea solea, European plaice, Pleuronectes platessa, and common dab, Limanda limanda, on a beach with a fish trap, fishing boats in the background by French School

Flat fish, plate from "Brehms Tierleben: Allgemeine Kunde des Tierreichs", vol
AGD241756 Flat fish, plate from " Brehms Tierleben: Allgemeine Kunde des Tierreichs", vol.8, p.224, published by Bibliographisches Institut, 1892 (colour litho) by German School

The spoiled
José Ignacio Gil Blanco

Fishing huts on stilts with suspended carrelets (fishing nets), Saint-Nazaire, Loire-Atlantique, Pays de la Loire, Brittany, France, October

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In the picturesque region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, specifically in Charente-Maritime, lies the charming coastal town of Fouras. Here, one can find a sight that is truly unique to this area - colourful stilt fishing huts known as "carrelets". These whimsical structures stand tall above the water's edge, creating a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The they are not just visually appealing; they also serve an important purpose. Used primarily for fishing, these huts provide fishermen with a convenient and efficient way to catch fish such as turbot, European plaice, topknots and Dover sole. The fishermen set up their traps beneath these huts and patiently wait for their catch. One cannot help but be reminded of the rich history surrounding carrelets when looking at engravings like "Le Vocabulaire Illustre: Carrelet; Place; Junge Scholle" or "Ichthyologie's Plaice (Pleuronectes Platessa) plate XLII". These depictions showcase the intricate details of these flatfish species commonly found in this region. Beyond its functional use in fishing, carrelets have become iconic symbols of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. They have been featured in various forms of art and literature throughout history. For instance, Brehms Tierleben's illustration captures the essence of these fascinating creatures within their natural habitat. While exploring Gironde's Medoc region or Saint-Estephe commune nearby, one might stumble upon more carrelets dotting the landscape. These structures add character to an already breathtaking scenery and offer visitors a glimpse into traditional French coastal life. For those seeking tranquility by the sea, Saint-Palais-sur-Mer is another destination worth visiting. Here you will find yet another stunning example of a stilt fishing hut - a true testament to France's maritime heritage, and are not just simple fishing huts.