Original engraving “Native of Madisson Island” – after A. Wahlen, circa 1844

Beautiful engraving depicting an “Indigeno dell'isola Madisson (America),” a tattooed warrior wearing a feather headdress, a short coat, a colorful loincloth, and carrying a club, standing facing forward. This plate comes from the Italian edition of Auguste Wahlen's book “Usi e costumi sociali, politici e religiosi di tutti i popoli del mondo” (adaptation of “Mœurs, usages et costumes de tous les peuples du monde”), published in Turin by Fontana around 1844.
The character is identified as a native of Madison Island, the former name of Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia), making it an interesting document on European representations of Marquesan warriors in the 19th century.
The sheet shows some browning and a few signs of age, but the hand coloring remains vivid; it is highlighted in a simple modern frame, ready to hang.
This piece will appeal to lovers of antique engravings, Polynesia, ethnography, and 19th-century travel illustrations.
Framed by us to ensure the protection of the engraving and enhance its presentation.
International shipping. Delivery by Colissimo with careful packaging and reinforced protection of the item.
DIMENSIONS: Frame 21x30cm / Engraving 16.5x24.5cm
DATE: Circa 1844–1850, 19th century
ORIGIN: Europe (Italian edition) after Auguste Wahlen, series “Mœurs, usages et costumes de tous les peuples du monde” (Manners, customs, and costumes of all the peoples of the world)