Views of Africa · 19th century
€ 270
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good condition. Light overall toning consistent with age. A clean impression with visible plate marks and minimal spotting. No major flaws. In acid free matting board. Suitable for framing.
This finely detailed antique engraving, published in 1802, depicts a "Saicque," or small sailing vessel employed along the Barbary Coast of North Africa. The vessel is shown with two distinctive lateen sails, a design common to Mediterranean maritime craft. These types of boats were typically used for coastal trading, fishing, and short sea voyages between ports along the coastlines of present-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.
The scene shows the boat anchored near the shore, with calm waters and a low shrub-lined coastline in the foreground. The engraving reflects the growing British interest in Mediterranean and North African regions during the early 19th century, both for strategic and commercial purposes. The detailed rendering of the sails, rigging, and hull captures the craftsmanship and unique form of this regional vessel.
Beneath the image, the caption reads: "A Saicque, or small Vessel imployed on the Coast of Barbary."
Drawn by Thomas Stothard ("T. Stothard delt.") and engraved by James Heath ("Heath sculp.")
Published in London: "London, Published as the Act directs, March 1st 1802, by Cadell & Davies, Strand."
This print would have formed part of a larger series or illustrated work concerned with naval or ethnographic subjects, popular among British readers and collectors of the time. It offers a glimpse into the design of smaller, regional craft at a time when European powers were increasingly active in the Mediterranean.
Condition report:
Very good condition. Light overall toning consistent with age. A clean impression with visible plate marks and minimal spotting. No major flaws. In acid free matting board. Suitable for framing.
Framing tips:
This engraving pairs beautifully with a classic gold or dark wood frame. Use a neutral, ivory-toned mat to enhance the sepia hue of the aged paper and draw attention to the fine detail of the sails and rigging.
Technique: Engraving
Maker: James Heath after Thomas Stothard, London, 1802
