212 François Valentijn (1666–1727) – Fruit Trees of Southeast Asia – Copperplate Engraving (1724)

The upper section includes scientifically composed botanical illustrations, each labeled with plate numbers, reflecting the 18th-century emphasis on plant taxonomy and exploration. The lower vignette blends ethnographic and geographic observation, capturing the Dutch colonial presence and native life in the East Indies.

The work was based on observations and collections made during Valentijn’s service with the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Though engraved after VOC field drawings and compiled from various sources, Valentijn’s publication stands as a foundational document for the European understanding of Southeast Asian natural history.

François Valentijn (1666–1727) was a Dutch minister, naturalist, and historian. He served the VOC primarily in Amboina and had direct contact with renowned German-born botanist Georg Eberhard Rumphius. Valentijn’s extensive travels and access to VOC records enabled him to produce one of the most comprehensive early visual and textual records of the East Indies.

Artist or Maker:

François Valentijn, engraved by G. Schoute

Dimensions:

36 cm x 28 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.