4555 François Valentijn (1666–1727) – Tropical Fish from the Shores of Ambon – Copperplate Engraving – 1724
This finely executed copperplate engraving showcases two horizontal panels of tropical fish found near the island of Ambon and the surrounding Moluccan archipelago. The upper scene presents a rugged shoreline with several specimens washed onto the beach, including elongated eel-like forms and rounded reef fish. The lower panel features intricately patterned fish resting in coastal vegetation, including one with striking stripes and others with spots and scaled armor. A smoking volcano rises in the background, situating the scene firmly in the geologically dynamic East Indies. Each specimen is annotated with a number for reference to Valentijn’s zoological catalogue.
François Valentijn (1666–1727) was a Dutch naturalist and VOC minister whose magnum opus, Oud en Nieuw Oost-Indiën (1724–1726), combined natural history, ethnography, and regional geography of the Dutch East Indies. His engravings of marine life were among the earliest visual records of Indonesian biodiversity, blending direct observation with artistic dramatization typical of the early Enlightenment period.
Artist or Maker:
François Valentijn
Dimensions:
approx. 30 cm x 20 cm
Medium:
Copperplate Engraving
Date:
1724
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 300 - 400 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 25% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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