Engraving of a Maori Village Scene at Astrolabe Bay, New Zealand, ca.1836
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1836
Sheet size
25.2 × 34.2 cm (9.9 × 13.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14025-32
Condition
Except for the borders, good condition. Light foxing present along the margins with minor corner wear. A few tears in the left border, but not reaching the image. The central image remains clean and well-preserved, with sharp details intact.
About this sheet
This finely detailed engraving captures a serene scene of a Maori village located along the shores of Astrolabe Bay in New Zealand. The image depicts Maori villagers engaged in daily activities, such as launching and hauling their intricately carved canoes (waka) onto the shore. Thatched-roof huts are scattered across the landscape, blending seamlessly with the lush vegetation of the surrounding hills. A carved gateway, a symbol of cultural artistry, marks the entrance to the village, adding a sense of structure and tradition to the scene.
In the background, tranquil waters extend towards distant islands and snow-capped mountains, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of the region. The composition emphasizes the strong connection between the Maori people and their environment, reflecting their maritime heritage and resourceful way of life.
This engraving, likely produced as part of Dumont d'Urville's exploratory records, provides valuable insight into Maori culture and their interactions with the land and sea during the early 19th century.
Condition Report: Except for the borders, good condition. Light foxing present along the margins with minor corner wear. A few tears but not reaching the image. The central image remains clean and well-preserved, with sharp details intact.
Keywords: Astrolabe Bay, Maori village, waka canoes, New Zealand, Maori culture, indigenous life, maritime heritage, traditional architecture, Dumont d'Urville, 19th-century exploration.
