"[The Solemn Ritual of Offering a Deerskin to the Sun] Was sie fur Ceremonien Halten wann sie der Sonnen Jarlich eine Hirschhaut Opffern", Bry, Theodore de

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 is Plate XXXV from the second part of De Bry's Grands Voyages, which focused on Florida. The scene shows French explorers and King Outina observing a Native American ceremony. The Floridians are gathered around a tall pole, onto which an offering of a large stag and garlands of fruit are presented to the sun. On a full sheet of German text measuring 9.4 x 13.1".

References: Van Groesen (De Bry's America) pp. 135-137.

Condition: B+

A nice impression with minor toning and light soiling. There is a chip in the bottom right corner of the sheet.