About this sheet
Jamaican Maroons, Antique Caribbean Engraving after Brunias, 1818
Original antique engraving titled "Pacification with the Maroon Negroes," an important historical image relating to the Jamaican Maroons and British colonial history in the Caribbean.
The scene is based on a work by Agostino Brunias (c. 1730–1796), the Italian-born artist known for his depictions of people and society in the British West Indies. The inscription beneath the image states "Drawn from the life by Agostino Brunias" and records that it was taken from an original painting then in the possession of Sir William Young. The plate is engraved by Scott.
The composition depicts a formal encounter between a group of Maroons and British colonial representatives in a tropical setting. The contrast between the assembled Maroon figures and the seated and standing European officials makes this a particularly striking visual document of colonial-era Jamaica.
The subject relates to the complex history of Jamaica's Maroon communities, formed largely by Africans who escaped slavery and established independent settlements in the mountainous interior of the island. The Maroons successfully resisted British attempts to subdue them and negotiated treaties with the colonial authorities during the 18th century.
This engraving was published in the 1818 London edition of Bryan Edwards' "History of the British West Indies." Edwards (1743–1800) was a British politician, merchant, plantation owner and historian who spent considerable time in Jamaica. His writings remain significant historical sources for the British Caribbean, while reflecting the perspective of a prominent defender of the plantation system and opponent of abolition.
An important image for collections relating to Jamaica, the Caribbean, the African diaspora, Maroon history, slavery and colonial history.
Artist: After Agostino Brunias (c. 1730–1796)
Engraver: Scott
Title: Pacification with the Maroon Negroes
Author / Publication: Bryan Edwards, History of the British West Indies
Technique: Engraving on paper
Origin: London, England
Date: 1818
Period: Early 19th Century
Style: Georgian / Regency
Condition:
Good antique condition with general age-related toning, scattered foxing and spotting, particularly in the margins. Minor edge wear and paper irregularities consistent with age and removal from the original volume. The engraved image remains detailed and well defined. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
The companion engraving "Trelawney Town, the Chief Residence of the Maroons," from the same publication, is also available separately.
An original antique engraving, more than 200 years old. Not a modern reproduction.
Sold unframed. Any framed images or interior views shown are for presentation and inspiration only.
