"XLI Capittel", 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.

From Part III - Von Stanten's Voyages to Brazil in 1546-1555. Hans von Stanten was captured by the Tupinamba Indians of Brazil and held for nine months, narrowly escaping being killed and eaten. His account of their tribal customs, especially in regard to cannibalism and religious practices, is one of the most fascinating early accounts of the New World. The Tupinambá Indians planned to attack their rivals, the Tipiniki who lived near the fort at Bertioga and were friendly to the Portuguese. They went in 38 canoes and took Staden with them. The night before the attack they camped on the island of Sao Sebastiano and before going to sleep, they performed a strange dance during which they held little figures of their idols in their hands. The next day they sat about their fire eating stewed fish and recalling their dreams for clues as to the outcome of the forthcoming battle. German text.

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Condition: A

Tissue repair in bottom corner, not affection text or image.