Reptiles & Amphibians · 19th century
€ 120
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition Report: The print shows foxing and minor yellowing around the edges. Overall, it remains in fair to good condition for its age.
This serene antique print, titled Vichenou, Couché sur le Serpent Abychen (or Adysechen?), portrays the Hindu deity Vishnu in a state of cosmic rest, reclining on the multi-headed serpent Ananta (Shesha), the eternal king of nagas in Hindu mythology.
Published in 1806, this artwork is a significant piece from Pierre Sonnerat's influential travelogue, "Voyage aux Indes orientales et à la Chine," which documents his explorations and cultural observations in India. Sonnerat, a French naturalist, explorer, and ethnographer, collaborated with the skilled artist Poinson to produce this detailed illustration, capturing the European fascination with Indian spirituality and cosmology during the early 19th century.
The print beautifully illustrates a key moment in Hindu cosmology where Vishnu, the preserver deity of the universe, rests on Ananta between cycles of creation and dissolution, symbolizing the eternal continuity of existence.
The artwork was created using copperplate engraving, a meticulous technique celebrated for its ability to render fine details, such as the intricate scales of the serpent, Vishnu's ornate jewelry, and the flowing patterns of his traditional garments. Vishnu is depicted in a tranquil pose, lying on the coiled body of Ananta, with the serpent's multiple heads forming a protective canopy above him, set against a backdrop of cosmic waters symbolizing the primordial ocean. What makes this print particularly compelling is its fusion of Hindu cosmological symbolism with European artistic interpretation, offering a unique perspective on cross-cultural exchange during the era of colonial exploration. The detailed rendering of the serpent and Vishnu's divine repose provides a profound glimpse into the symbolic richness of Hindu mythology, making this piece a valuable artifact of historical, cultural, and artistic significance from the early 19th century.
Condition Report: The print shows foxing and minor yellowing around the edges. Overall, it remains in fair to good condition for its age.
Framing Tips: Use an acid-free mat to prevent further aging. Select a dark wooden frame with a silver accent to complement its elegance. Opt for UV-protective glass to shield from fading, and display in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight exposure.
