"[Columbus and His Brother Are Arrested]", 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 shows Columbus and his brother Bartholomew being placed in leg-irons prior to being shipped to Spain by Francisco de Bodadilla, the new Governor of Hispaniola. Arriving in Spain in chains, Columbus refused to be released, causing King Ferdinand and Isabella much embarrassment. They attempted to correct the error by bestowing numerous honors upon Columbus. The engraving is filled with numerous soldiers, rowboats, and large sailing ships in the background. On a full sheet of German text measuring 9.1 x 13.5".

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Condition: A

Minor toning and foxing mostly confined to the blank margins.