Marquisen-Eilanders – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (early 1800s)

Ethnography

Marquisen-Eilanders – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (early 1800s)

€ 210

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Mapmaker / artist: J. Kuyper (del.), L. Portman (sculp.), Amsterdam, early 1800s
Publisher: Johannes Allart
Technique: Hand-colored copper engraving
Sheet size: 22.5 × 13 cm (8.9 × 5.1 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-13696-19

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

Excellent period impression with rich original colors. Light aging and small marks in the blank margins as expected with age. Wide margins preserved. Blank verso.

About this sheet

Marquisen-Eilanders – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (early 1800s)

Fine original hand-colored engraving depicting inhabitants of the Marquesas Islands in Polynesia. Published in Amsterdam in the early 19th century by Johannes Allart as part of Martinus Stuart’s influential ethnographic series “De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol”. Drawn by J. Kuyper and engraved by L. Portman.

The scene portrays a family moment set against lush island terrain. A tattooed Marquesan man wearing a feathered ceremonial headdress interacts with a playful child, while a seated woman prepares natural fibers—beautiful details reflecting Marquesan daily life, artistry, and cultural identity during this period. The engraving retains strong, vivid hand-coloring that enhances the textures of textiles, body art and the tropical landscape.

These early depictions of the Pacific Islands are increasingly valued for both their artistic merit and their documented cultural history. Striking as a standalone display and highly collectable within its series.

Dimensions:
Image approx. 13 × 22.5 cm
Sheet approx. 23 × 36 cm

Excellent period impression with rich original colors. Light aging and small marks in the blank margins as expected with age. Wide margins preserved. Blank verso.

Framing Suggestions:
A walnut or dark hardwood frame pairs beautifully with the warm palette. A floated mount showing the full sheet and printed title adds a museum effect.