Antique Copperplate Print of Ayutthaya, 'View of Siam and Various Boats', 1751

Maritime · 18th century

Antique Copperplate Print of Ayutthaya, 'View of Siam and Various Boats', 1751

€ 130

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

Date: 1751
Sheet size: 23.3 × 17 cm (9.2 × 6.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-13600-45

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

Good. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Not a sharp imprint. Please study scan carefully.

About this sheet

An original engraving featuring a view of Siam, which is present-day Thailand, specifically a view of the city of Ayutthaya with numerous boats depicted on the river. The title, "Vuë de Siam et divers balons," translates from French to "View of Siam and Various Boats."

This image shows a bustling river scene, a key aspect of Ayutthaya, which was known for its extensive waterways and trade. The boats, or "balons," are of various sizes and likely represent the diverse commercial and daily activities that took place along the river. The presence of numerous boats suggests the importance of river traffic and trade to the city's economy and culture.

In the background, the cityscape is detailed with buildings that reflect the architectural style of the period. The foreground features a prominent pagoda or stupa, which is a typical element in Buddhist architecture, signifying the religious significance of the location. The array of structures likely includes palaces, temples, and defensive walls, illustrating Ayutthaya's status as a significant urban center.

The engraving comes from the "Histoire Générale des Voyages," a comprehensive travel account published in Paris by Didot, which held royal approval and privilege. This print would be part of a series that illustrated various accounts of voyages and discoveries from around the world, aimed at a European audience eager for knowledge about distant lands.