Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10

1806 French Print of Quichena: Serpent-Wrapped Deity - Hindu Engraving

$221.39
£166.97
€190
CA$306.09
A$342.87
CHF 180.09
MX$4,169.16
NOK 2,280.48
SEK 2,164.79
DKK 1,446.40

About the Item

Title: 1806 French Engraving of Quichena: Serpent-Wrapped Deity, Plate 46 Description: This captivating antique print, titled "Quichena, Entortillé du Serpent Calongam," presents a striking depiction of the deity Quichena, an avatar of the Hindu god Krishna, entwined with the serpent Calongam (Kaliya). Published in 1806, this artwork originates from Pierre Sonnerat's "Voyage aux Indes orientales et à la Chine," a significant work documenting his explorations in India. Sonnerat, a French naturalist and traveler, collaborated with the artist Poinson to create this detailed illustration, which reflects the European fascination with Indian mythology during the early 19th century. The print is Plate 46 in the series, showcasing the deity Krishna in a powerful stance, subduing the multi-headed serpent Kaliya, a well-known episode from Hindu mythology where Krishna defeats the poisonous snake to save the people of Vrindavan. The technique employed is copperplate engraving, a method prized for its precision and ability to capture intricate details, such as the scales of the serpent and the elaborate ornaments adorning Quichena. The central figure of Krishna is flanked by two smaller figures, likely representing devotees or symbolic attendants, adding depth to the narrative composition. What makes this print particularly fascinating is its cultural intersection—it offers a European lens on Hindu mythology, blending artistic styles and interpretations. The depiction of the serpent Calongam, with its detailed scales and coiled form, highlights the symbolic triumph of good over evil, a universal theme that resonated with audiences of the time. This print serves as both a historical document and a work of art, capturing a moment of cross-cultural exchange during a period of global exploration. Condition Report: The print exhibits light foxing and slight yellowing around the edges. A minor crease on the lower left corner is visible but does not impact the central image. Overall, it remains in good condition for its age. Framing Tips: Use an acid-free mat to protect against aging. Choose a dark wooden frame with subtle gold accents to enhance its antique charm. Opt for UV-protective glass to prevent fading, and display in a low-humidity area away from direct sunlight.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.23 in (28.5 cm)Width: 8.47 in (21.5 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1806
  • Condition:
    Condition Report: Good condition for its age, with minor foxing and light browning on edges. Slight creasing at corners and minimal wear on margins, but the central image remains clear and intact. No tears or significant damage observed.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13429-451stDibs: LU3054345082362

More From This Seller

View All
Rare 1808 Engraving of Krishna's Triumph Over Serpent Kaliya
Located in Langweer, NL
1808 Engraving of Krishna's Triumph Over Serpent Kaliya Description: This enchanting antique print, titled "Quichena, Dansant sur le Serpent Calongam," captures a dynamic moment of ...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Cosmic Repose on Serpent Ananta in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Cosmic Repose on Serpent Ananta in Hindu Mythology Description: This serene antique print, titled Vichenou, Couché sur le Serpent Abychen (or Adysech...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

Rare Engraving of Hindu Deity Virapatrin, Antique Print Published in 1806
Located in Langweer, NL
Rare 1782 Sonnerat Engraving of Hindu Deity Virapatrin, Antique Print Description: This striking antique print, titled "Virapatrin," was created by the French naturalist and explore...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

Striking 1806 Ravana Demon King Antique Print - Hindu Ramayana Engraving
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Striking 1806 Ravana Demon King Antique Print - Hindu Ramayana Engraving Description: This dramatic antique print, titled "Ravayen, Roi de l’Île de Ceylan," depicts Ravana, t...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

Historic 1806 Shiva and Vishnu Harihara Antique Print - Hindu Deity Engraving
Located in Langweer, NL
Historic 1806 Shiva and Vishnu Harihara Antique Print - Hindu Deity Engraving Description: This exquisite antique print, titled "Chiven et Vichenou, sous le nom de Singara narainen,...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Vaivert, Fierce Form of Shiva in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Vaivert, Fierce Form of Shiva in Hindu Mythology Description: This striking antique print, titled "Vaïvert," depicts Vaivert, a fierce form of the Hindu deity...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

You May Also Like

Uses and Customs - Indian - Lithograph - 1862
Located in Roma, IT
Uses and Customs - Indian is a lithograph on paper realized in 1862. The artwork belongs to the Suite Uses and customs of all the peoples of the universe: " History of the governmen...
Category

1860s Modern Figurative Prints

Materials

Lithograph

The Other Incarnations of Vishnu - Costumes - Lithograph - 1862
Located in Roma, IT
The other incarnations of Vishnu - Costumes    is an original lithograph on paper realized in 1862. The artwork belongs to the Suite Uses and customs of all the peoples of the unive...
Category

1860s Modern Figurative Prints

Materials

Lithograph

Serpent - Etching by M. Chirnoaga - Late 20th Century
By Marcel Chirnoaga
Located in Roma, IT
Serpent is an original etching artwork by Marcel Chirnoaga (Romanian, 1930–2008) one of the most important artists of fantasy painting and mythology subjects in the XX century. The ...
Category

Late 20th Century Contemporary Animal Prints

Materials

Etching

Siva, Visnu, Brama - Indian Costumes - Lithograph - 1862
Located in Roma, IT
Siva, Visnu, Brama - Indian Costumes   is a Hand-colored lithograph on paper realized in 1862. The artwork belongs to the Suite Uses and customs of all the peoples of the universe: ...
Category

1860s Modern Figurative Prints

Materials

Lithograph

Crotalo - Pit viper - Etching by Jean Francois Turpin-1831
By Pierre Jean François Turpin
Located in Roma, IT
This is one of the illustrations of "Dizionario di scienze naturali" (Natural sciences dictionary) edited by Battelli nel 1831.  The work was made of 29 volumes, containing hundreds ...
Category

1830s Modern Animal Prints

Materials

Etching

Original Antique Print of Snakes, 1847 'Unframed'
Located in St Annes, Lancashire
Great image of snakes. Unframed. It gives you the option of perhaps making a set up using your own choice of frames. Lithograph after Cpt. Brown with original hand color. Publishe...
Category

Antique 1840s English Folk Art Prints

Materials

Paper