Catalog Archive
Auction 120, Lot 798

"[Lot of 2 - Virginia and Canada]", Bry, Theodore de

Subject: Exploration

Period: 1645 (circa)

Publication: Grand Voyages

Color: Hand Color

Size:
6.5 x 5 inches
16.5 x 12.7 cm
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This copper engraving is from a remarkable series of publications, illustrating voyages of discovery and travels of exploration to various parts of the world. The project was begun by Theodore de Bry of Frankfurt, in 1590 and was to continue for another 54 years. They became known collectively as the Grands Voyages (to America and the West Indies) and the Petits Voyages (to the Orient and the East Indies). De Bry died after the first six parts of the Grands Voyages were completed. The project was completed initially by his widow and two sons, Johann Theodore de Bry and Johann Israel de Bry, then by his son-in-law, Matthaus Merian in 1644.

Two interesting views of native scenes in early North America. Each is on a sheet (8 x 12.5") from the German edition issued by Matthaus Merian, De Bry's son-in-law.

1) The first view shows the fortified Indian village of Sasquesahanok in Virginia, with natives engaged in agricultural pursuits outside the walls. The view is taken from John White's Drawing of Pomeiock. This view is colored.
2) This untitled view portrays Native Americans hunting moose on Mansel Island in the Hudson Bay. The hunting method involved lighting fires to drive the animals into the sea, where canoes of bowmen were stationed offshore. The region was also known for its fisheries, which are depicted in the foreground. This view is uncolored.

References:

Condition: B+

Both sheets have a bit of faint foxing.

Estimate: $200 - $275

Sold for: $300

Closed on 7/18/2007

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