"De Armis & Telis Barbarorum", 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.

This engraving depicts the siege of Iguaracu, a fort along the Brazilian coast near Recife. The fort had become besieged by Native Indians, and the Portuguese were commanded to bring supplies to the fort and to assist in protecting it. The Indians attempted to block the river by felling trees, but the Portuguese ships were able to make their way up the river and save the men in the fort. At bottom center is a fort on the island of Itamaraca, which would later become Fort Orange. On a full sheet of Latin text measuring 9.2 x 13.4".

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Condition: B+

A crisp impression with light toning.