Engraving of a Maori Village Scene at Astrolabe Bay, New Zealand, ca.1836
€ 220
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1836
Sheet size
25.2 × 34.2 cm (9.9 × 13.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14025-32
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
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.
