Chuck Ripper (American, B. 1929) "Female Stoplight Parrotfish Among Coral" Signed lower right. Original Gouache/Watercolor painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood Mint Stamps of the World Collectors Panel for the Nevis Fish stamp issue of September 1, 1993. The males of the species known as Parrotfish, the Blue Thum is distinguishable from its mate by its blue body color and the yellow hue of its tail base and gill cover. Occasionally, it attains larger size and more brilliant shades than the female, becoming a terminal-phase or "supermale." The flesh of the Blue Thum spoils quickly discouraging human predators. In contrast, the striking red body, brown head and multicolored scales of the Red Thum make it a highly visible fish. Reaching up to 20 inches in size, it is one of the reef's most magnificent residents. So meticulous is the Red Thum in its search for food that in the process of grazing for algae on coral and rock, it turns them into fine sand. Except in special cases, this female outshines her partner, the Blue Thum in appearance and size. Image Size: 20.5 x 16.25 in. Overall Size: 22.75 x 18.75 in. Unframed. (B14485)