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Wedding and Fire Baptism of the Parsis – Rare 1734 Zoroastrian Ritual Engraving
About the Item
Title: Wedding and Fire Baptism of the Parsis – Rare 1734 Zoroastrian Ritual Engraving
Description:
This remarkable 18th-century copperplate engraving presents two rare and finely rendered scenes of Zoroastrian (Parsi) religious rites, as observed and imagined by European artists and scholars. Issued in 1734 as part of *The Ceremonies and Religious Customs of Various Nations of the Known World*, the print reflects the growing Enlightenment fascination with the diverse customs of non-European cultures. The depictions are among the earliest published visual records of Parsi matrimonial and initiation rites, offering a blend of careful ethnographic interest and imaginative interpretation.
The upper half of the engraving is titled *Cérémonie Nuptiale des Parsis ou Gaures* (Wedding Ceremony of the Parsis or Guebres). The scene takes place in an intimate, domestic setting filled with cultural detail. The bride and groom are seated on an elevated platform or bed, surrounded by family members and attendants. A man pours a liquid—perhaps rosewater or sacred fluid—on their heads as part of the ritual. The couple is richly dressed, and female attendants are actively participating. The background includes shelves of ceremonial vessels and a fire burning in a brazier, evoking the sacred presence of fire in Zoroastrian worship.
The lower panel, *Baptême par le Feu des Gaures* (Fire Baptism of the Guebres), offers a dramatic scene of what appears to be an initiation or purification ritual, symbolically referred to as a "baptism by fire." In a large stone hall, women and children approach the central sacred fire, surrounded by swirling smoke and intense gestures of reverence. A priest-like figure performs ablutions or blessings while others pour water or oil over participants. The fire at the center of the composition emphasizes the importance of fire in Zoroastrian theology, where it is a divine element and a symbol of purity and truth.
These engravings reflect a sincere attempt to capture and communicate the spiritual depth and ceremonial richness of the Parsi faith. While some details are speculative or filtered through European assumptions, the prints remain valuable visual artifacts of early interreligious curiosity and respect.
Condition report:
Good overall condition with strong plate marks and rich detail. Minor age-related foxing and toning, especially near the margins. A small crease at the top left edge, and the paper shows natural wear consistent with 18th-century handmade sheets. No visible tears or restorations.
Framing suggestions:
Frame this tall double-scene engraving in a vertical orientation with a deep archival mat that allows each image to breathe. A soft cream or warm beige mat will complement the natural tone of the aged paper. A dark wood or black frame offers elegant contrast. Use UV-protective glazing to preserve the fine line work and paper integrity. Float mounting is recommended to show the full plate mark and deckled edges.
- Dimensions:Height: 16.54 in (42 cm)Width: 10.24 in (26 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:Paper,Engraved
- Period:1730-1739
- Date of Manufacture:1734
- Condition:Good overall condition with strong plate marks and rich detail. Minor age-related foxing and toning, especially near the margins. A small crease at the top left edge, and the paper shows natural wear consistent with 18th-century handmade sheets.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13806-271stDibs: LU3054345016612
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