The image is an engraving titled “VEROVERINGE VAN RIO GRANDE IN BRASIL ANNO 1633.” This historical print depicts the Dutch conquest of Rio Grande in Brazil, known today as Natal, during the year 1633. The conquest took place under the command of Frederick Hendrick van Nassau, who was the Prince of Orange at that time.
The scene prominently features the Portuguese fortress situated at the mouth of the Rio Grande River, surrounded by numerous ships, likely part of the Dutch fleet involved in the conquest. The engraving shows the landscape of the region, including detailed representations of the fortifications, the river, and the surrounding terrain.
This particular print is the work of an anonymous engraver, and it was created after a depiction by Isaac Commelin or Commelijn. The print was later included in a book by Gregorio Leti titled "Teatro Belgico." Leti, born in Milan in 1630, was a noted historian and satirical writer who eventually moved to England before relocating to Amsterdam. His works included a history of the seven provinces of the Netherlands, which this engraving is part of.
The engraving was produced using etching on hand-laid (verge) paper, and it features a watermark. The print is an attractive and historically significant representation of the Dutch colonial efforts in Brazil during the early 17th century.
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