ARTIST: Chris Calle (American, born 1961) NAME: Skipjack Tuna YEAR: 1995 MEDIUM: mixed media on board CONDITION: Excellent. SIGHT SIZE: 12 x 16 inches / 30 x 40 cm BOARD SIZE: 15 x 22 inches / 38 x 55 cm SIGNATURE: lower right NOTE: This painting is the original painting which appeared on the Federated States of Micronesia Skipjack Tuna stamp issued August 4, 1995. Chris Calle's painting of the Skipjack Tuna is one of a set of four of the beautiful native fish of Micronesia. For centuries, Micronesians have thrived on a variety of food fish harvested from the waters surrounding their home islands. Today, commerical fishing companies have also tapped into the region's abundance of aquatic life. One of the most popular fish caught by such operations is the Skipjack Tuna. Particularly prevalent in the Pacific, these creatures are known to grow very rapidly. However, their life expectancy is only about four years. The Yellow-fin, another variety of tuna, has a reputation as one of the most tenacious game fish. Once it takes the bait, this fish fights the angler every step of the way. The Cave Grouper, on the other hand, is relatively secretive. It inhabits caves and crevices such as those found in Micronesia's steep outer reef slopes. Known to be a loner, the Cave Grouper typically travels singly or sometimes in small groups. A more gregarious resident of Pacific waters is the Bluelined Snapper. This fish occurs in large gatherings, particularly around prominent coral formations, isolated reefs and wrecks. Because this snapper feeds at night, it is among the most popular catches of sportsmen who fish during the evening hours. PROVENANCE: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. CATEGORY: antique vintage painting AD: ART CONSIGNMENTS WANTED. CONTACT US SKU#: 118263 US Shipping $60 + insurance. BIOGRAPHY: The son of artist Paul Calle, Chris Calle studied painting and illustration at the University of Michigan School of Art and has become known both for his paintings and postage stamp designs.