17th Century Prints

This original copper engraving depicts a lively scene of daily life in New Spain from Arnoldus Montanus' "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibung des Welt-teils Amerika und des Su...

Antique print titled 'Tartarische Mannen'. Old print depicting three men from Tartary, Mongolia. The men carry various weapons. This print originates from 'Het gezantschap der Neêrl...

Antique map titled 'The Counti of Warwick the Shire Towne and Citie of Coventre described'. Map of Warwickshire, England. Includes inset town plans of Warwic...

Antique print titled 'Neapolis'. Bird's-Eye View of the city of Naples, Italy. Published by Matthäus Merian the Elder, circa 1650. Matthäus Merian sr. (the Elder; 1593-1630) was born in Switzerland but eventually settled in Frankfurt; he was trained as an engraver. He married Maria Magdalena de Bry, daughter Johann Theodore de Bry...

Antique print of Don Vasco meeting Catual, who took him to Calicut. Also depicts various figures with drums and trumpets. This print originates from 'Naauwkeurige beschryvinge van Ma...

Antique map titled 'India quae Orientalis dicitur et Insulae Adiacentes'. Beautiful map of Southeast Asia, extending from India to Tibet to Japan to New Guinea. It was the first po...

This is an original antique print that features an intricate engraving from 1698, depicting Charles XI, the King of Sweden, titled "Carolus XI, Suecorum Gothorum Et Vandalorum Rex,"...

Antique print titled 'Il Monte avec la Main, les Eperons, et Gaule (..)'. Plate 4 from "La Methode et Invention Nouvelle de Dresser les Chevaux" by William Cavendish. This engraving shows William Cavendish, first Duke of Newcastle...

Antique map titled 'Accurata Scaniae, Blekingae et Hallandiae Descriptio per F. de Wit Amstelodami'. This map shows South Sweden with an inset of Halmstad and vicinity. Contemporary ...

Antique map titled 'Nova Totius Germaniae Descriptio'. Uncommon map of the German Empire including the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Bohemia,...

The print titled "AMERIKENS ENTDECKER" is a striking antique copper engraving, crafted in 1673 during the 17th century as part of the German edition of Arnoldus Montanus' influential work, "Die Unbekante Neue Welt" ("The New and Unknown World"). The engraving was executed by Jacob van Meurs, a renowned Dutch engraver and publisher known for his detailed works on geography and history, and it was published in Amsterdam. Description of the Print: The engraving measures 17 x 13 cm (approximately 6.6 x 4.7 inches) and is set on a page that is 31 x 19.5 cm (about 12.2 x 7.4 inches). It depicts a vivid scene that illustrates the discovery of America...

This etching and engraving is a portrait of Assan Aga, created by Elias Nessenthaler, a German artist, in the year 1687. The artwork features Assan Aga, identified as "Magnus Aleppo Bassa," which suggests he held a significant position in Aleppo, likely a high-ranking official or governor ("Bassa" being a variant of "Pasha", a high-ranking title). The text beneath the portrait indicates that he was a significant adversary ("Perniciem") to the emperor of the Turks, hinting at a historical narrative of conflict or betrayal ("Coniuratus hostis" suggesting a conspiratorial enemy). The portrait shows Assan Aga adorned in elaborate attire with a turban, indicative of his status and cultural significance during that period. The detail in the etching, from the facial features to the clothing, reflects the artistic skill of Elias Nessenthaler and the styles of portraiture common in the late 17th century. The framing of the image with decorative borders adds to its formal presentation and would have likely been intended for an audience interested in the political and military figures of the time. Assan Aga, also known as Magnus Aleppo Bassa, was likely a historical figure of significance in Aleppo, bearing the title of Pasha, which indicates a high-ranking official or governor in the Ottoman Empire. The detailed portrait by Elias Nessenthaler, housed in the Royal Collection, hints at his importance during his time. For further details on Assan Aga, you can visit the Royal Collection Trust...

Antique print titled 'Vaisseau Royal de l'Angleterre, Konincklyke Schip van Engeland'. Beautiful hand-coloured engraving of the Royal Flagship of the English Fleet. Originally publis...

This 1601 engraving by Theodore de Bry, a master engraver and publisher of the late Renaissance period, depicts the flora of India with a remarkable degree of detail and artistry. The print is titled "DE ALGA SEV ARVNDINE INDICA, BAMBVS DICTA, ITEM DE arbore radicosa: & tandem de arbore Duryeons," which translates to "About the Seaweed or Reed of India, called Bamboo, also about the root tree: and finally about the Duryeons tree." In the illustration, we see a lush depiction of a bamboo grove, with its characteristic tall and slender form, showcasing the plant's extensive root system and dense foliage. To the left, there is a tree bearing large, round fruits, likely the durian, labeled here as "Duryeons." The durian is known for its distinctive size, unique aroma, and spiky husk. The image captures both the exotic appeal and the utilitarian value of these plants, which were of great interest to European audiences unfamiliar with such tropical vegetation. The visual composition conveys the tropical abundance and biodiversity of the Indian subcontinent. De Bry's engravings like this were highly sought after in Europe for their exotic subject matter and served to educate and fascinate the European public about the natural wonders of the world beyond their borders. As a historical document, this engraving provides insight into the botanical knowledge and the artistic conventions of the period, making it a valuable piece for both its historical significance and its aesthetic beauty. De Bry's work is renowned for its attention to detail, and this print is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of exotic lands and their natural abundance. His engravings were among the first visual records to reach Europe from the New World and the East, fueling curiosity and fascination with distant lands. This particular piece is not only a work of art but also a historical document, offering insight into the botanical wealth of India as seen through the eyes of early modern Europeans...

This original engraving titled "'t Huys van Niel" (also known as "Praetorium de Niele") depicts a historic building located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. This copperplate engr...

Antique map titled 'Hellas seu Graecia Universa' Detailed map of Greece, with Crete, the Aegean Islands, and part of Turkey. With two cartouches, compass rose and scale. Carolus Alla...

Title: "Ritual Dance in Brazil" Description: This original copper engraving from Arnoldus Montanus' "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibung des Welt-teils Amerika und des Sud-La...

Antique portrait titled 'Iacobus V'. Portrait of James V of Scotland. This print originates from 'Tooneel der keyseren ende coningen van christenryck sedert de...

Antique map titled 'Bingen'. Bird's eye-view of Büdingen, Germany. The view shows a city surrounded by vineyards and well fortified with walls and moats. On the right is the castle w...

Title: "Salsta Castle in Pastoral Uppland: A Dahlberg Engraving, 1710" Description: This original hand-colored engraving from 1694, entitled 'SAALSTAD,' presents a stately view of S...

This original engraving is referring depicting a detailed illustration of a fire ship, a type of naval vessel used as a weapon during the Eighty Years' War. Fire ships were essenti...

Antique map titled 'Dania Regnum'. Large, attractive map of Denmark, Sleschwig-Holstein and southern Sweden. Good detail throughout. Embellished with a title cartouche with the Danis...

The image is a historical copper engraving from 1673, taken from the German edition of Arnoldus Montanus' work, which is known for its depiction of the Americas and the Southern land...

Antique print titled 'Armand Cardinal de Richelien (..)'. Portrait of Cardinal Richelieu, bust-length directed to right, wearing biretta, mozzetta, insignia of the order of the Holy ...

Antique print titled 'The Roÿall Banquet - t Koonincklyck Banket'. Original antique print of a feast for the Dutch embassy in the palace, China. This print originates from 'Gedenkwae...

An original antique engraving of the Battle of Oosterweel, which took place in 1567 during the Dutch Revolt. It is an early conflict leading up to the full-scale Eighty Years' War. T...

Antique print titled 'Het Huys en Hof Vryburg'. Copper engraving of the estate of West-Souburg, the Netherlands. This print originates from 'Nieuwe Cronyk van Zeeland' by Mattheus Sm...

Makalös or De la Gardieska palace, from 1643. View from Jacob's church. Later function as an arsenal and armory chamber. Rebuilt as the Dramatic Theater in 1793. Destroyed by fire on November 24, 1825. Copper engraving in Suecia antiqua et hodierna, from about 1667. This print is from "Suecia Antiqua et Hodierna," which is a significant work depicting Sweden during its era as a great power. The collection of engravings...

Title: "Rituals and Ceremonies in New Spain" Description: This striking copper engraving is extracted from Arnoldus Montanus' seminal work, "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibu...

Antique print titled 'Lewarden.' A bird's eye view of Leeuwarden (Friesland, the Netherlands). Views of Jollain are scarse and sought after by collectors. Artists and Engravers: Mad...

Antique print titled 'S. Ieremias'. Old print of S. Jeremias, below a decorative cartouche with lettered key. This print originates the very rare travel book 'Hierusalemsche Reyse' b...

Antique print titled 'Gaspard Conte de Colligny (..)'. Portrait of Gaspard III de Coligny, half-length directed to right, looking to front, holding a baton, with moustache, small bea...

Title: "Aromatic Treasures of the Indies: The Enchanting Scents of De Bry’s Exotic Collection" Description: This intricate 1601 engraving from Theodore de Bry’s collection showcases...

Antique print titled 'Louys XIII du Nom Roy de France'. Engraving of Louis XIII, King of France. Half length with curled hair, moustache, lace collar, a...

This original antique image is a historical depiction from "Suecia Antiqua et Hodierna," which translates to "Ancient and Modern Sweden." This was a significant work of the mid-17th century, initiated by Count Erik Dahlbergh...

Antique print titled 'Jean Budes Conte de Guebriant (..)'. Portrait of Jean Baptiste Budes, Comte de Guébriant, half-length directed to right and looking to front, with shoulder-leng...

Antique print China titled 'Ordo equitanis exercitus'. Old print depicting the cavalry. This print originates from the Latin edition of Nieuhof's w...

Title: "Venngarn Castle, Uppland: A Dahlbergh and Swidde Masterpiece, c. 1695" Description: This enchanting hand-colored copper engraving from circa 1695 captures the grand Venngarn...

These images are rare but fine examples of original 17th-century European engravings, displaying characteristics that might point to an Italian origin based on stylistic analysis. Th...

Antique portrait titled 'Lodovicus D.G. (..)'. Portrait of Louis II, King of Hungary, Croatia and Bohemia. This print originates from 'Tooneel der keysere...

Antique print titled 'Leoena - Leo'. Original antique print of a lion and lioness. This print originates from 'Historiae Naturalis De Quadrupetibus Libri I' by John Johnston, published by Matthias Merian in 1657. John Johnston (or Johnstone, 1603-1675) was a descendant of a Scottish family...

An original copper engraving from the renowned "Suecia Antiqua et Hodierna," an atlas of Sweden created under the direction of Erik Dahlberg in the late 17th century. This particular engraving, crafted by Willem Swidde in 1692, depicts the Östanå herrgård (manor house) in Gränna, located in the Jönköping county of Småland. The engraving showcases the manor in a stately fashion, with a classical architectural design featuring symmetrical wings and a central structure adorned with a grand staircase. The scene is animated with figures in the foreground, indicating the manor's role as a hub of activity and societal life. The garden layout...

Untitled print of a man from Cairo, Egypt. The man is playing an (music) instrument. This print originates from 'Reizen van Cornelis de Bruyn, door de vermaardste deelen van Klein As...

This original rare print depicts the siege and capture of Oudenaarde on July 5, 1582, during the Eighty Years' War. A notable incident during this event was the miraculous escape of ...

The engraving is a historical depiction of Rosersberg Castle, a baroque estate in Sweden. These engravings, often created in the 1690s as part of Erik Dahlberg's collection, typically showcase a bird's-eye view of the castle and its elaborate gardens. Such prints are valuable for their detailed representation of Swedish architectural heritage from the era of baroque grandeur. They usually feature notable age-related toning and wear, indicative of their antique status. These pieces of art are collectibles that capture the essence and grandiosity of Swedish noble...

Antique map titled 'Les Iles du Iapon (..)'. Original antique map, with beautiful (later) hand coloring, of Japan and the Island of Corey (Korea). Uncommon edition, with '234' at top...

Antique print titled 'Calechut'. Wonderful, miniature copper engraving depicting Arion riding on a very cheerful looking sea monster in the important tradi...

Antique print titled 'Divo Caesar Augusto L. Clunidius I. F. Cla: ponto'. Original antique print showing a view of the Dardanelles, Turkey, with ships. This print originates from 'Na...

Title: "Maritime Elegance: A Dahlberg View from 'Suecia Antiqua et Hodierna'" Description: This captivating hand-colored copper engraving is a piece from "Suecia Antiqua et Hodierna...

Title: "Rosersberg Palace: Dual Perspectives by Willem Swidde" Description: The featured antique engravings portray Rosersberg Palace in Sweden, captured from two distinct vantage p...

Antique print titled 'Een Walvisch lang zo voeten, gestrandt op de Hollandtse zee-kust, tusschen Schevelingen en Katwyk, in Sprokkelmaandt, 1598'. Beautiful original antique print of...

Antique print titled 'Additions pour l'Asie reponz dans aux chifres (..) - Surate ou Souratte'. View of the city of Surat, southeastern Gujarat state, west-central India. With variou...

An handcolored original antique print of Svartsjö Castle, located on the island of Färingsö in Ekerö Municipality, Sweden. The castle has a rich history, with the current building da...

Antique map titled 'Mansfeldiae Comitatus Descriptio'. Original antique map of the region of Mansfeld, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Shows the area between Halle a. d. Saale, Aschersleben,...

Untitled antique print with a view of the city of Cairo in Egypt and Joseph's Well in Cairo. This print originates from 'Reizen van Cornelis de Bruyn, door de vermaardste deelen van ...

Antique print China titled 'Kuching'. Old print depicting a view on the Chinese city of Kuching or Kuchin (Gui Jiang, Kuei Chiang), near the river Gui (Guei). This area is close ...

These images are rare but fine examples of original 17th-century European engravings, displaying characteristics that might point to an Italian origin based on stylistic analysis. Th...

Description: Antique map titled 'Delineato Regionis Bassora cum Angis uminibus et Isulis.' Map of the Bassora (Basra) region, Iraq. Artists and Engravers: Made by 'Olfert Dapper' ...