Atahualpa the Last Inca Emperor of Perue, 1700, Engraving on Paper

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Atahualpa – Last Inca Emperor of Peru – Baroque Engraving c.1700 : This striking antique engraving depicts Atahualpa, the last … Read more Atahualpa – Last Inca Emperor of Peru – Baroque Engraving c.1700 : This striking antique engraving depicts Atahualpa, the last sovereign emperor of the Inca Empire, here rendered under the Latinised name ‘Athabalipa’ with the caption “Athabalipa ultimus Rex Peruanorum,” meaning “Atahualpa, last king of the Peruvians.” The portrait shows him with a dramatic feather headdress, elaborate jewellery, and strong facial expression, while he is depicted in chains, referencing his capture by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1532. Behind him are stylised architectural elements suggesting Inca palaces or temples, surrounded by a Baroque cartouche of weapons, laurel, chains, and an exotic feline mask above.

This engraving is typical of late 17th to early 18th-century European interpretations of global rulers, designed to both educate and fascinate viewers with depictions of ‘exotic’ leaders. Such prints often featured in encyclopaedic works or collections on the costumes, histories, and monarchs of the world, produced for the growing literate elite of the Baroque era.

The heavy ornamental framing, with trophies of arms and regalia, was intended to emphasise Atahualpa’s royal dignity despite his captivity. The Latin text and highly decorative style suggest publication in Amsterdam, Nuremberg, or Paris between circa 1680 and 1720. Atahualpa was the last ruler of the Inca Empire before its conquest. Captured by Pizarro at Cajamarca, he offered a vast ransom of gold and silver, which was collected but he was executed nonetheless in 1533. His death marked the end of the Inca Empire and the beginning of Spanish colonial rule in the Andes. This engraving is an important historical document of European perceptions of the New World and its rulers in the early modern period.

Condition report: Very good given age. Slight toning to edges, faint marginal crease at upper left corner, and minor handling marks typical for prints of this age. Strong impression with excellent detail. See less