Copper Engraving of Daily Life in New Spain in The 17th Century, 1673

This detailed copper engraving is from Arnoldus Montanus' "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibung des Welt-teils Amerika und des Sud-Landes," which offers a glimpse into the cere...

This original copper engraving hails from Arnoldus Montanus' seminal work, "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibung des Welt-teils Amerika und des Sud-Landes," a comprehensive depiction of the Americas published in 1673. It presents a vivid scene set in colonial New Mexico, showcasing a moment of interaction—possibly a ceremonial or everyday event—between indigenous people and European settlers or explorers. The detailed attire and adornments of the figures suggest a narrative rich in cultural exchange and complexity. This piece is not only a reflection of the artistic style and engraving techniques of the 17th century but also serves as a historical document capturing the early encounters between different worlds. Published in Amsterdam by Jacob Meurs, this rare German edition offers a unique glimpse into the perceptions and imaginations of European society regarding the New World during the Age of...

A large, nicely-framed Italian hand-colored engraving in tones of terracotta and black. The engraving depicts various figures and scenes from the house of Titus, including angels in chariots bringing love and prosperity, boys playing childhood games, fishing, and other elements of Roman life (17th century, with more recent matte and frame). Engraving is captioned in Latin: "Pictura qua Domus Titi fornices exornabat, plures exhibens Genios in bigis, variosque puerorum ludos, et piscationem, ultra alias principales figuras." "Petrus Sancte Bartoli delin." Pietro Santo...

These engravings are part of a series of 25 prints called "les gueux" or "les mendiants", "les barons", "les barons". Numbered 12 and 16, they were published with the 23 others betwe...