La Pérouse Alaska Tlingit Costume Engraving – French Expedition, 1797
A rare and historically significant late 18th-century engraving depicting the indigenous inhabitants of Port des Français (Lituya Bay, Alaska), based on observations from the famed scientific expedition of Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse.
This finely detailed composition presents a group of Tlingit figures—men, a woman, and a child—gathered beneath a rustic wooden shelter. The scene captures a moment of interaction and cultural observation, with figures shown in traditional dress, engaged in quiet exchange. The engraving reflects the Enlightenment-era ambition to document the peoples and cultures encountered during global exploration, combining ethnographic interest with refined artistic execution.
The original drawing was made by Gaspard Duché de Vancy, one of the official artists accompanying La Pérouse’s expedition (1785–1788), whose work remains one of the earliest visual records of the Pacific Northwest Coast. The engraving was later published in the official atlas to *Voyage de La Pérouse autour du monde* (1797–1798), one of the most important French exploration accounts of the 18th century. Plates from this atlas are highly sought after for their historical importance, documenting regions and cultures that were largely unknown to European audiences at the time.
The composition is particularly strong for its balance and intimacy, offering a rare early European depiction of Tlingit life in Alaska. The fine engraving work captures textures of clothing, wood structures, and facial expression with clarity and sensitivity, making it both a valuable historical document and an engaging decorative print.
A desirable piece for collectors of exploration history, ethnographic imagery, and Pacific Northwest material, as well as those interested in the great voyages of discovery of the late 18th century.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning, light foxing, and some faint staining near the margins. The sheet shows a central fold as issued and retains wide margins, contributing to a strong overall presentation.
Framing tips: This print displays beautifully in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory mat, enhancing the tonal contrast of the engraving and giving it a refined, museum-quality presence. A slightly deeper mat can further emphasize the intimate composition.
Note: The print is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Technique: Copper engraving Maker: After Gaspard Duché de Vancy, French, published Paris, 1797–1798
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