"[Lot of 2] [One of the Religious Men in the Town of Secota] [and] [A Young Gentle Woman Daughter of Secota]", 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.

These two engravings depict figures within the Indian village of Secota. The first depicts a local priest that is "wellstricken in years" and a "notable enchanter." His hair is cut short with a crest and is dressed in a short cloak. The second shows a young woman wearing a necklace of pearls, copper, and/or polished bones. The written account makes claims for the "maydenlike modestye" of the young ladies of Secota. Each engraving is on a sheet of German text measuring approximately 9.4 x 13.0". Engraved by Gijsbert van Veen and published in the second German edition.

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Condition: B+

Nice impressions on slightly toned sheets with light soiling. The first sheet has a diagonal printer's crease. The right margin of the second sheet has been extended with old paper.