Religion · 19th century
€ 240
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good overall condition. Sheet trimmed with light toning and some minor foxing, especially in the lower margins. Plates are clean and impressions remain strong.
This composite engraving presents three distinct depictions of Hindu spiritual figures, each portrayed in a separate frame with individualized titles: *Saniassi*, *Pandaron*, and *Carépatré-Pandaron*. These figures reflect various aspects of asceticism, devotion, and priesthood in South Indian religious life as observed by European travelers in the 18th century.
On the left, the *Saniassi* is shown as a wandering ascetic, barefoot and draped in a simple cloth, holding a staff and water pot. He appears near a cave dwelling, suggesting a life of renunciation and meditation. Sannyasis (or sadhus) are respected spiritual seekers in Hindu tradition who renounce worldly attachments to pursue spiritual enlightenment.
The central image depicts the *Pandaron*, likely representing a type of seated ascetic or temple mendicant. He is shown in a relaxed yet attentive posture, holding a string of prayer beads and seated near ritual tools, possibly indicating his role in temple-related religious practices or public preaching.
The right panel shows the *Carépatré-Pandaron*, a priest or devotee within a temple colonnade, actively engaged in worship or ritual. He is partially marked with religious body paint and gestures with one hand, possibly mid-chant or in prayer. His upright, attentive stance and temple setting suggest he holds a ritual officiant role.
All three scenes are drawn from Pierre Sonnerat’s travels in South India and were engraved by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Poisson for the 1806 edition of *Voyage aux Indes Orientales et à la Chine*. The engravings reflect a European attempt to classify and visually document the religious diversity and practices of India during the colonial period.
Together, the plates offer insight into early 19th-century interpretations of Hindu spirituality and provide a valuable visual reference for students of religion, anthropology, and colonial history.
Condition report:
Good overall condition. Sheet trimmed with light toning and some minor foxing, especially in the lower margins. Plates are clean and impressions remain strong.
Framing tips:
This triptych-style engraving would be well suited to a single wide frame with a neutral mat, allowing each figure to be individually appreciated while preserving the unity of the composition.
Technique: Engraving
Maker: J.-B.-M. Poisson after Pierre Sonnerat, Paris, 1806
