Religion · 18th century
€ 330
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
good, given age. General age-related toning, especially around the borders, and minor defects from handling. Edges a bit rough but overal very good and sharp images. Please study the images carefully.
Marriage, Baptism, and Other Customs of the Sami People
This print features four distinct scenes depicting various customs and rituals of the Sami people, an indigenous group from Lapland. Each panel captures a significant cultural or religious event, beautifully illustrated to convey the depth of these traditions.
1. Top Left - Marriage Ceremony in Lapland:
This scene depicts a marriage ceremony taking place inside a church in Lapland. The image shows a couple at the altar, surrounded by attendees in traditional dress, suggesting the communal and ceremonial importance of marriage in Sami culture.
2. Top Right - Baptism Ceremony in Lapland:
The baptism of a baby is shown here, occurring within a church setting. A priest is administering the sacrament, attended by the family. This panel highlights the integration of Christian religious practices with local customs.
3. Bottom Left - Funeral in Lapland:
This panel illustrates a funeral, marked by a gathering in a natural, outdoor setting, possibly a reflection of the Sami’s close connection to nature. Mourners are depicted in a solemn state, attending to the burial rituals.
4. Bottom Right - Sami Shaman in Ecstasy:
The scene shows a Sami lying on the ground in a state of ecstasy, with a magic drum on his back, as onlookers watch and a reindeer stands nearby pulling a sleigh. This image likely represents shamanistic practices, emphasizing the spiritual and mystical aspects of Sami culture.
Technical Information:
- Artist/Engraver: Bernard Picart (workshop of), supervised by Bernard Picart
- Manufacturing Location: Amsterdam
- Date: 1726
- Medium: Etching and engraving on paper
- Technique: Etching/engraving
Context:
This print is from Bernard Picart's "Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses des peuples idolâtres", particularly the second tome, first part, published in 1728. The work focuses on the religious ceremonies and customs of non-Christian peoples, providing a detailed, illustrated account of these traditions for European audiences. This engraving serves as a rich visual document of the Sami’s cultural practices, reflecting both their daily life and spiritual beliefs. The scenes are designed not only to inform but also to evoke a sense of respect and fascination with the Sami way of life.
