Catalog Archive
Auction 140, Lot 395

"[Untitled - Fort Real]", Commelin, Isaac

Subject: Fort Real, Brazil

Period: 1651 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.5 x 10.8 inches
36.8 x 27.4 cm
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This bird's-eye plan depicts the siege and capture of Fort Real by the Dutch in 1635. Fort Real (Arraial do Bom Jesus) was a Portuguese stronghold near Recife (Pernambuco), known for its sugarcane. After creating the Dutch West India Company to aid in their colonization of the Americas, the Dutch set their sights on northern Brazil, quickly setting up headquarters in Recife. The Dutch continued to expand their control over the area, and in 1635 they conquered Fort Real and several neighboring cities, thereby increasing their control over sugar lands and the resulting profits. This view depicts roads and forested areas surrounding the fort at center, with miniature soldiers scattered throughout. A legend at top identifies several redoubts commanded by various captains. In the bottom right corner is a gruesome battle scene.

References:

Condition: A

Issued folding on watermarked paper with a printer's crease adjacent to fold at top and a minute burn hole along the fold at bottom. Right margin is a bit narrow, but still adequate for framing.

Estimate: $350 - $450

Sold for: $350

Closed on 5/23/2012

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