About this sheet
Antique print titled 'The Roÿall Banquet - t Koonincklyck Banket'. Original antique print of a feast for the Dutch embassy in the palace, China. This print originates from 'Gedenkwaerdig bedryf der Nederlandsche Oost-Indische Maetschappye, op de kuste en in het keizerrijk van Taising of Sina (..)' by O. Dapper. Published 1670.
Artists and Engravers: Olfert Dapper (c. 1635 - 1689) was a Dutch physician and writer. He wrote books about history and geography, although he never traveled outside Holland. Until today, his book Description of Africa (1668) is a key text for Africanists.
This antique engraving titled "The Roÿall Banquet - t Koonincklyck Banket" is particularly interesting for several reasons:
1. Historical Context: The engraving depicts a feast for the Dutch embassy in a Chinese palace, highlighting the interactions between the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the Chinese empire during the 17th century. This period was marked by significant trade and cultural exchanges between Europe and Asia.
2. Artistic Detail: The intricate details in the engraving showcase the lavish setting of the banquet, with ornate decorations, elaborate costumes, and a grand architectural interior. These details provide insights into the artistic styles and techniques of the time.
3. Cultural Significance: The engraving illustrates a significant diplomatic event, capturing the cultural and ceremonial aspects of a royal banquet in China. It reflects the mutual curiosity and respect between different cultures during early globalization.
4. Source and Publication: The print originates from Olfert Dapper's book "Gedenkwaerdig bedryf der Nederlandsche Oost-Indische Maetschappye, op de kuste en in het keizerrijk van Taising of Sina (..)" published in 1670. Dapper, a Dutch physician and writer, is known for his detailed descriptions of foreign lands, despite never traveling outside Holland. His works, such as "Description of Africa," are considered important historical texts.
5. Engraver's Skill: The engraving is a testament to the skill of 17th-century artists and engravers. The ability to convey such a detailed and complex scene in a print format showcases their technical prowess.
Overall, this engraving is a valuable historical artifact that offers a glimpse into 17th-century diplomacy, art, and cross-cultural interactions.
