Ethnography · 19th century
€ 210
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good for age. Clean sheet with wide margins. Mild margin toning and a few faint age spots in blank areas only. Crisp impression with bright original hand-coloring.
Guiana Indigenous People – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Print c.1805
A striking and beautifully hand-colored ethnographic print titled “Guianers,” depicting Indigenous people from the region of Guiana in northern South America. The scene was published in Amsterdam around 1805 as part of the important Dutch series “De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol” (“Humankind as Found on the Known Globe”), written by Martinus Stuart and illustrated by Jaques Kuyper.
This detailed composition portrays a relaxing moment beneath a thatched shelter. One figure reclines in a hammock holding a fan, while another stands beside him with a bow and arrows, playing with a green parrot perched on her hand. Their finely rendered jewelry, body ornaments, and hairstyle details reflect traditional regional adornment. The setting includes baskets, pottery, and a musical instrument, contributing to a vivid sense of daily life. The original hand-coloring remains rich, enhancing the natural environment and expressive figures.
Stuart & Kuyper’s publication is considered one of the most ambitious Dutch ethnographic works of the early 19th century, documenting world cultures through exploration accounts and early anthropology. While reflecting European viewpoints of the time, these prints now serve as valuable historical records of South American Indigenous heritage.
This is a highly decorative and collectible print with strong visual impact — ideal for collections focused on global cultures, exploration history, or South American ethnography.
Condition:
Very good for age. Clean sheet with wide margins. Mild margin toning and a few faint age spots in blank areas only. Crisp impression with bright original hand-coloring.
Framing Tips:
A natural wood frame or dark brown finish paired with a warm white museum mat will highlight the earthy tones. Floating the sheet to show the plate mark and wide margins is recommended.
Technique: Hand-colored copper engraving
Maker: Jaques Kuyper (del.), engraved by Portman
Publisher: Johannes Allart, Amsterdam, c.1805
Publication: De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol
