"[South American Indians]", 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. Very graphic depiction of 11 warriors and women in full costume celebrating around a large bonfire. Boats and fishing barriers in the background. Stanten's text reads "When they have escaped any great danger by sea or land, or be returned from the war, in token of joy they make a great fire about which the men and women sit together holding a certain fruit in their hands...they fill with small stones or certain big kernels to make the more noise, and fasten that upon a stick. Thus, and singing after their manner, they make merry…"

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Condition: B

Even, but light impression on a full sheet with large margins. Numerous professional repairs in margins, one repair in image at bottom barely affecting image.