Antique Print of the Temple of Pythons, Ouidah, Benin, Africa, 1748

About this sheet

Antique print titled 'Procession au Temple du Serpent - Ommegang naar den Tempel des Serpents'.

Print of the procession at the Temple of Pythons, Ouidah. This print originates from 'Historische beschryving der reizen, of Nieuwe en volkoome verzameling van de aller-waardigste en zeldsaamste Zee- en Landtogten' by P. de Hondt.

The Temple of Pythons is a site of historical and modern symbolism and spiritual practice in Ouidah, Benin. The snakes are a major totem for followers of Vodun, a religion practiced by groups of people within West and Central African nations such as Ghana, Togo, and Benin.

Vodun became somewhat widespread in southern regions of the New World as a result of the African diaspora. It became the inspiration for other religions such as Louisiana Voodoo and Haitian Vodou. Snakes are important religious symbols and are highly respected. According to the theology, a rainbow serpent named Dan is an important deity that serves as a middleman between the living and the spirits.

The serpents play a large role in the spirituality of Ouidah. According to local legend, the king of Ouidah took refuge in a forest from those seeking to kill him during a war in the 1700s. When he was in hiding, pythons emerged from the forest and prevented him from being captured. To commemorate their role in his protection, he ordered the creation of three monuments.

Artists and Engravers: Engraved by Jakob van der Schley (Amsterdam 1715-1779), a Dutch draughtsman and engraver. He studied under Bernard Picart and became heavily influenced by his style.

Condition: Good, age-related toning, Original folding lines, blank verso. Please study image carefully.
Date: 1748
Overall size: 37.5 x 25.5 cm.
Image size: 28 x 19 cm.

Whilst cartography holds a special place in our collection, we also offer thousands of antique prints covering fields of interest as diverse as architecture, natural history, religion, ethnology and many more.They were the product of engraved, etched or lithographed plates. These plates were handmade out of wood or metal, which required an incredible level of skill, patience and craftsmanship. Whether you have a house with Victorian furniture or more contemporary decor an old engraving can enhance your living space. We offer a wide range of authentic antique prints for any budget.