1599 Print of Native Javanese War Ship
Galiotten und Fusten der Javaner
By: Theodor de Bry
Date: 1599 (circa) Amsterdam
Dimensions: 11.75 x 8 inches (30 cm x 20.3 cm)
This is print XXVII in his series on the city-sultanate Bantam in Java, located across the straits from Sumatra. Here we find a ‘typical Javanese man-of-war ship’, replete with slaves manning the oars in the galleys. Hand cannons are already in use by the locals, and on deck is a group of well-armed soldiers. In the background a smaller vessel is manned by a small group of sailors.
This interesting copperplate engraved print by Theodor deBry was composed by him according to stories and illustrations of European expeditions and explorations that were being made at the end of the sixteenth century.
Theodor de Bry started his professional career as an engraver, during the three years he lived in London. De Bry became acquainted with the geographer Richard Hakluyt, whose stories of expeditions to exotic foreign lands invoked a desire in de Bry to make the discoveries known to a wider reading public. Thus most of his books were based on first-hand accounts by the explorers themselves.
Condition: This print is in B+ condition with some light foxing, most of which is in border areas. Print displays a nice, strong impression.
Inventory #19530
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