Original Antique Engraving of Peruvian Llamas by Arnoldus Montanus, c.1671

Original Antique Engraving of Peruvian Llamas by Arnoldus Montanus, c.1671

Description:

An original antique copperplate engraving depicting llamas in Peru, published in Amsterdam around 1671 in Arnoldus Montanus' celebrated work De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld ("The New and Unknown World").

The engraving portrays Indigenous Peruvians handling and loading llamas, the iconic pack animals of the Andes that played a vital role in the economy of the Inca Empire. The figures are shown wearing traditional feathered headdresses while preparing the animals for transport through the mountainous landscape. A reclining llama occupies the foreground, while the background suggests the dramatic scenery of the Peruvian Andes.

A particularly attractive feature of this engraving is its unusual presentation. Rather than illustrating only the central scene, the print depicts the engraving as if displayed within an elaborate architectural frame or cabinet, creating a trompe-l'œil effect that was characteristic of some of the finest seventeenth-century Dutch publications.

Arnoldus Montanus (1625–1683) was one of the leading Dutch historians of the seventeenth century. His monumental work on the Americas became one of the most influential European publications describing the geography, peoples and natural history of the New World. The engravings were published by the renowned Amsterdam printer Jacob van Meurs and remain among the finest visual records of early European knowledge of South America.

Llamas were indispensable to the Inca civilisation, serving as pack animals, sources of wool and symbols of wealth throughout the Andes. Early European depictions such as this are highly sought after by collectors of exploration, natural history and colonial Latin America.

This is an original antique engraving printed in the seventeenth century. It is not a modern reproduction.

Maker: Arnoldus Montanus

Publisher: Jacob van Meurs

Publication: De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld

Title: Llamas in Peru

Place of publication: Amsterdam

Date: circa 1671

Technique: Copperplate engraving

Origin: The Netherlands

Condition:

Good condition considering its age. Original centre fold as issued. General age-related toning, occasional light foxing and minor handling wear. Please study the image carefully.

The framed and interior visuals are provided for imagination and presentation purposes only. The original antique print is sold unframed.

Keywords:

Peru, llama, llamas, alpaca, Andes, Inca, Inca Empire, Indigenous Peru, pack animals, Arnoldus Montanus, Jacob van Meurs, De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld, Amsterdam, 1671, original antique print, copperplate engraving, seventeenth century, Dutch Golden Age, South America, Latin America, colonial Peru, exploration, travel literature, natural history, decorative engraving, rare print.