Jaques Kuyper, Inhabitants of Nootka Sound (Vancouver Island), Print, 1805

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Inhabitants of Nootka Sound (Vancouver Island) – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Print c.1805 This finely hand-colored ethnographic print titled “Inwooners van … Read more Inhabitants of Nootka Sound (Vancouver Island) – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Print c.1805 This finely hand-colored ethnographic print titled “Inwooners van Nootka” (“Inhabitants of Nootka”) depicts Indigenous First Nations people from the Nootka Sound region of Vancouver Island, Canada — often associated with the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples. It was published in Amsterdam around 1805 as part of the Dutch anthropological series “De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol” (“Humankind as Found on the Known Globe”), written by Martinus Stuart and illustrated by Jaques Kuyper. The composition features a family wearing woven cloaks typical of the Pacific Northwest coastal climate. The seated figure’s facial tattooing and adornment, along with the distinctive woven hat of the standing figure, reflect cultural identity and craftsmanship of the region. Behind them is a carved wooden structure — likely a house post or ceremonial element — reinforcing the rich ceremonial and artistic heritage of the Nootka peoples. The original hand-coloring is well preserved and adds warmth and character. This important series represents one of the earliest Dutch efforts to document cultures around the world through travel reports and early anthropology. Today, the prints are valued as visual records of Indigenous traditions prior to major cultural changes brought by European expansion. An appealing piece for collectors of Native American and First Nations history, early ethnography, or coastal Northwest art — and a strong decorative print due to its fine detail and rich color. Condition: Good for age. Wide margins preserved. Some light age toning and faint spots confined mostly to the blank margins. Strong impression and excellent original hand-coloring. Framing Tips: A warm off-white museum mat with a natural wood or black frame will complement the earthy palette. Float mounting recommended to reveal the plate mark and generous margins. Technique: Hand-colored copper engraving Maker: Jaques Kuyper (del.), engraved by Portman Publisher: Johannes Allart, Amsterdam, c.1805 Publication: De Mensch, zoo als hij voorkomt op den bekenden aardbol See less