After Leloir, Shipwreck Scene in Melanesia with Islanders Salvaging Wreckage, 1845, Lithograph

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Shipwreck scene in melanesia – islanders salvaging wreckage, c.1845 this powerful hand-colored lithograph, titled “océanie – mélanésie,” is taken from … Read more Shipwreck scene in melanesia – islanders salvaging wreckage, c.1845 this powerful hand-colored lithograph, titled “océanie – mélanésie,” is taken from le monde en estampes: types et costumes des principaux peuples de l’univers, published in paris around 1845–1850 by amédée bedelet. Drawn by leloir, lithographed by j. Bocquin, and printed by lemercier, this composition captures a dramatic coastal episode that merges ethnographic curiosity with 19th-century romantic storytelling. The scene depicts a group of melanesian islanders on a wild shore, salvaging the remains of a european shipwreck. In the distance, a vessel lies stranded among crashing waves, while survivors or scavengers struggle near the surf. The foreground focuses on six figures, each engaged with the unfamiliar objects brought by the sea — symbols of the encounter between the western world and the pacific islands. One man, draped in an animal-skin cloak, kneels at the left, gazing into a mirror with a mix of wonder and self-examination. Beside him, an open chest spills luxurious fabrics, a blue coat, and metallic goods, evoking both temptation and curiosity. Another islander seated to the right tries on a european top hat, his expression caught between amusement and disbelief. A central figure stands tall, holding a spear and wearing a red headband, his posture proud and dignified as he surveys the scene. Behind them, others wade among the wreckage, framed by foaming waves and tropical vegetation. This work epitomizes the romantic imagination of the south seas: mysterious, remote, and touched by the drama of human encounter. While intended for european audiences, it offers a fascinating 19th-century vision of cultural contact — not as a peaceful exchange, but as a moment of tension, fascination, and adaptation. The shipwreck setting provided artists like leloir with an opportunity to explore themes of discovery and loss, rendered here with sensitivity to light, texture, and human expression. Printed by the famed lemercier studio, the lithograph demonstrates superb tonal balance and hand-applied coloring — from the earthy browns of skin and sand to the shimmering white of the surf and the vivid accents of red and yellow in garments and feathers. Condition report: very good impression with strong coloring and fine detail. Some light foxing and minor age toning in the margins; image area clean and bright. Wide borders preserved. Framing tips: ideal with a soft ivory or warm beige mat and a natural wood or dark oak frame. A thin inner mat in muted blue or grey will emphasize the sea and sky tones, enhancing the print’s atmosphere. Technique: hand-colored lithograph maker: j. Bocquin after leloir, printed by lemercier, paris, circa 1845 See less