Subject: Florida, Natives
Period: 1591 (circa)
Publication: Grands Voyages, Vol. II
Color: Black & White
Size:
8.3 x 5.7 inches
21.1 x 14.5 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 scene depicts the "French Promontory" coast of Florida, the site of the first landing of French explorers in Florida. Laudonniere's two ships are anchored with two boats disembarking to the shore. A group of Native Americans, with their king seated on a pile of laurel and palm branches, is preparing to trade with the explorers. On a page of Latin text measuring 9.4 x 13.6".
References:
Condition: A
A sharp impression on a bright sheet with a rust spot at top left and a large chip at bottom right, well away from the image.