Subject: Prints - Native American
Period: 1680 (circa)
Publication:
Color: Black & White
Size:
6.4 x 9.1 inches
16.3 x 23.1 cm
This rare and unusual portrait of a fictional Native American king was engraved by Nicolas de Larmessin (ca. 1638-1694), a French engraver known for his striking portraits (Mercator, Descartes, Queen Mary II, and Louis VII all number among his subjects). It depicts a composite Native American chief in a feathered headdress, beaded jewelry, and ceremonial garment. Other than his clothing, the king has a decidedly European look, complete with a mustache. The portrait is framed by a decorative border. Below the frame is French text describing the king's expansive western domain, his tribe, and his dress. Published by Pierre Betrand.
References:
Condition: B+
A crisp impression on watermarked paper with light scattered foxing that is mostly confined to unengraved areas. There is a small chip and some short edge tears in the bottom blank margin, and remnants of hinge tape are on verso.