Catalog Archive
Auction 178, Lot 217

"Entwurff der Nassawischen Flotta, wie Dieselbe ahn dem Ufer New Hispanien Gelegen... [on sheet with] Wie die Nassawische Flotta Sudwestwarts Under der Insul...", Bry, Theodore de

Subject: Acapulco, Mexico; Mariana Islands

Period: 1631 (circa)

Publication: Historia Antipodum oder Neue Welt

Color: Black & White

Size:
6.9 x 6 inches
17.5 x 15.2 cm
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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 sheet features two intricately detailed views. The engraving on top shows Dutch naval officer Witte de With's Nassau fleet waiting off the coast of Acapulco to capture Spanish cargo ships returning from Manila. The engraving at bottom depicts the fleet near the Ladronen Insulen (Mariana Islands) on its return voyage. On a sheet of German text measuring 8.1 x 13.1".

References:

Condition: B+

A crisp impression on a lightly toned sheet with minor show-through of text on verso.

Estimate: $100 - $130

Sold for: $75

Closed on 6/10/2020

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