Subject: Title Pages
Period: 1591 (published)
Publication: Grand Voyages, Vol. II
Color: Black & White
Size:
8.3 x 12.1 inches
21.1 x 30.7 cm
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.
This title page is from the remarkable series of publications known as the Grands Voyages. This series recounted the voyages of discovery to the Americas, and provided many Europeans with their first view of the New World. Volume II recounted the French attempts at settlement in Florida, including the explorations of Laudonniere, Ribault, and Le Moyne. This title page depicts an architectural facade featuring Timucuan Indians, as drawn by Jacques le Moyne. The title and publisher's imprint are printed on separate sheets and pasted onto the title page, as was common at the time.
References:
Condition: B
Light soiling and toning with several minor printer's creases. A chip at bottom right has been professionally repaired, with minor loss of image. Professionally backed in Japanese tissue to provide support and repair several short tears along the edges of the sheet.