Title of the view:
"Isle Maurice"
Antique copper engraved view of Mauritius, by Alain Manesson Mallet (1630-1706), a French engineer at the court of Louis XIV.
European explorers are armed with muskets and spears. They are sitting on a giant turtle, an animal strongly associated with Mauritius and the Mascarene Islands. One man appears to be killing or cutting birds, probably for food or trophies. This suggests violence or domination, common in early colonial imagery. In background, there is small boats ferry groups of Europeans from ships to shore. One boat is filled with passengers seated closely, suggesting organized landing or transport. On the shore, figures are chasing birds, likely the dodo or other exotic species (Mauritius is historically associated with the dodo).
This print has been made when Mauritius was occupied by the Dutch (1598–1710) before later French and British control. Giant turtles and birds were heavily exploited and driven to extinction.
Size with margins : 20 x 12,7 cm / 7,8 x 4,7 inches
Condition : very good condition, in colors
Edition : Description de l'Univers, Paris, 1683, 17th Century
Alain Manesson Mallet (1630-1706), French military engineer active during the second half of the 17th century, is one of Vauban’s favorite engineers. At the same time, mathematician, geographer, cartographer, architect, 'fortificator' and soldier, he is also a prolific author who has extensively published in the fields of cartography and military architecture. Mallet is best known for his Description de L’Univers, first published in 1683, in five volumes.
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A Certification of Authenticity can be issued on request.
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Due to the age an type of paper, some imperfections are to be expected. Please examine the images provided carefully, and if you have any questions please ask and we will be happy to help you