Sonnerat, Indian Widow by a River, Engraving, 1806

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Indian Widow by a River – Sonnerat Voyage Engraving, Paris Edition of 1806 This compelling engraving titled 'Veuve Indienne' (Indian … Read more Indian Widow by a River – Sonnerat Voyage Engraving, Paris Edition of 1806 This compelling engraving titled 'Veuve Indienne' (Indian Widow) is plate number 6 from Collection de Planches pour servir au Voyage aux Indes Orientales et à la Chine, the second edition published in 1806 by Dentu in Paris. It is based on drawings by the French naturalist and explorer Pierre Sonnerat, who traveled extensively through India and Southeast Asia in the late 18th century, documenting cultures, religious practices, and daily life. This scene depicts a widow in a moment of solitude near a flowing stream and rocky outcrop, possibly engaged in a ritual or symbolic act of cleansing or mourning. She is barefoot and dressed simply in a loosely wrapped garment, with part of her veil covering her head and the other hand resting on her chest. The pitcher in her hand may suggest her participation in a water ritual, possibly linked to purification, grief, or offering. The sparse yet textured landscape in the background evokes both isolation and natural dignity. The portrayal reflects the European fascination with the role of women in Indian society, particularly widows, who were often romanticized or misinterpreted in Orientalist literature. Sonnerat’s engraving is restrained in its drama but rich in ethnographic suggestion, capturing the contemplative nature of the figure without overt exoticism. It stands in contrast to the more ornamental or formal depictions found elsewhere in the series. As part of Sonnerat's broader work, this plate served to inform European audiences about cultural and religious practices in India, often with a lens shaped by Enlightenment curiosity and colonial assumptions. Nevertheless, its artistic sensitivity and technical precision make it a valuable example of early anthropological illustration. Condition: Good condition overall with strong impression on laid paper. Moderate age toning around the margins and faint scattered foxing, especially on the right edge. Blank verso. Framing suggestion: To enhance the contemplative mood of the piece, use a soft-toned archival mat (cream or light taupe) and a thin, dark wooden frame for contrast. Consider a slightly deeper bottom mat margin to highlight the French title, which adds historical context to the presentation. See less