"Casteel del Mina", Dapper, Olivier
Subject: Western Africa
Period: 1670 (circa)
Publication:
Color: Black & White
Size:
12.8 x 9 inches
32.5 x 22.9 cm
This finely engraved coastal view shows the first European fortress (Elmina Castle) built by the Portuguese on the Gold Coast of Africa. Established by various European nations to control trade in gold, ivory and slaves, the forts were the site of continual conflict among both Europeans and competing African kingdoms trying to control this trade. The principal early struggle was between the Dutch and the Portuguese in 1637.
References:
Condition: B+
A very dark impression on a sheet with wide margins. There is some foxing, mostly in the margins and a short tear in the bottom, well away from the view.
