Nieuw Caledoniers – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (1800s)

About this sheet

Nieuw Caledoniers – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (1800s)

A beautifully hand-colored antique engraving depicting inhabitants of New Caledonia (present-day French territory in the Pacific), published in Amsterdam by Johannes Allart in the early 19th century. Drawn by J. Kuyper and engraved by L. Portman, this image belongs to the important ethnographic series “De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol” by Martinus Stuart — a work documenting cultures around the world as known in the early 1800s.

This detailed plate shows two indigenous figures: a warrior preparing to throw a spear adorned with symbolic feather decorations, and a companion kneeling beside him, encouraging his stance. Their attire, weaponry, and village setting are richly illustrated, with thatched huts and tropical foliage visible in the background. The hand-applied coloring brings vibrancy to the scene, especially in the feathers, jewelry, and textures of their clothing.

These prints are admired today for their artistry and their role in early anthropological documentation. They make striking display pieces and are increasingly collected individually due to their rarity.

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

Condition:
Beautiful age-toned impression with strong original color. Light general ageing and minor edge wear consistent with age. Blank verso. A very well-preserved example.

Framing Suggestions:
A simple dark wood or ebony frame paired with an off-white or warm cream mat would highlight the vivid coloring. A museum-style floating mount can also emphasize the generous margins and printed title.

Technique: hand-colored engraving
Maker: J. Kuyper (del.), L. Portman (sculp.), Netherlands, early 1800s
Publisher: Johannes Allart, Amsterdam