Figures & Portraits · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good condition. Minor imperfections or light fox marks due to age and handling. Please review the image carefully.
This image is an original historical print showcasing two representations of a woman from Port Francais, a locale associated with the explorations of Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse.
The left side of the print presents the profile view, while the right side displays the frontal view of the same figure. The woman is adorned in clothing that suggests a blend of indigenous and European elements, indicative of the cultural exchanges that occurred during the era of exploration. The setting includes a landscape with trees, water, and figures in the background, possibly depicting other locals and explorers. The print is engraved by an artist named Deeves, based on an original picture by someone with the last name Prior. It was published in a work titled "A General View of the World," around the year 1807, which suggests that it was intended for educational or documentary purposes, providing European audiences with visuals of newly encountered peoples and places during that period.
Port Francais could refer to one of two locations based on the context:
Port-aux-Français: This is the main settlement on the Kerguelen Islands, which are part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands in the south Indian Ocean. It's a remote location known now primarily for its research stations and has a small population that varies seasonally.
Port Francais in Haiti: This is a location in the Nord region of Haiti. It's much less remote than Port-aux-Français and is situated in the Caribbean.
The context seems to align with the first location, Port-aux-Français, due to the mention of "new discoveries" which is historically associated with the exploration of remote and previously uncharted territories.
