Kuyper, Friendly Islands, Hand-Colored Print, 1803

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Vrienden-Eilanden (Friendly Islands), Antique Hand-Colored Print by Kuyper & Portman, 1803 This original early-19th century hand-colored anthropological print depicts the … Read more Vrienden-Eilanden (Friendly Islands), Antique Hand-Colored Print by Kuyper & Portman, 1803 This original early-19th century hand-colored anthropological print depicts the Indigenous people of the “Vrienden-Eilanden” — the Friendly Islands (present-day Tonga). Created after drawings by Dutch artist Jacques Kuyper and engraved by L. Portman, this work was published in Amsterdam by Johannes Allart as part of “De Mensch zoo als hij Voorkomt op den Bekenden Aardbol,” the major illustrated ethnographic series by Martinus Stuart (1802–1807). The print shows a man and woman from Tonga in traditional attire. The man gestures expressively while holding a string of red beads, and the woman wears finely patterned drapery and jewelry, giving the scene a rich ethnographic character. A woven structure, tropical vegetation, and traditional musical and crafted objects around their feet complete the cultural setting. The hand-coloring is refined and vivid, bringing warmth and vitality to the figures. Ethnographic prints from this era are highly collectible, documenting early European encounters with Pacific cultures during the Age of Exploration. Large-format and beautifully produced, this artwork stands out as a decorative statement piece, especially when framed as part of a set from the same series. Condition: Good condition for age. Soft toning and occasional minor foxing in the wide margins. Image clean and well preserved with strong color. Not mounted. Framing Tips: Recommend floating in a natural wood or dark frame with an off-white mat to enhance the historic palette and wide margins. Technique: Hand-colored engraving Maker: Jacques Kuyper (artist) & L. Portman (engraver), Amsterdam, 1803 See less