Catalog Archive
Auction 98, Lot 433

"[Lot of 5 engravings]", Bry, Theodore de

Subject: Exploration

Period: 1655 (published)

Publication: Newe Welt und Americanishe Historien

Color: Black & White

Size:
6.7 x 5.5 inches
17 x 14 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

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.

Five sheets from the German edition issued by Matthaus Merian, De Bry's son-in-law. The illustrations depict Columbus' voyage, John Smith's capture by the French, the Dutch attack on Santiago and the English attack on Cape Verde. Sizes vary slightly. One sheet with engravings on both sides, making the total number of six engravings in the set.

References:

Condition: A

Lightly toned, crisp impressions.

Estimate: $500 - $550

Sold for: $250

Closed on 3/6/2002

Archived