In 1590, the Flemish engraver and publisher Théodore de Bry introduced the first volume of his iconic America series, bringing the New World to life through his exquisite engravings. At a time when the Americas were largely unexplored by Europeans, de Bry's work offered a glimpse into the landscapes and cultures that thrived across the Atlantic.

Drawing from the travel accounts of notable explorers such as Thomas Harriot and Sir Walter Raleigh, de Bry's engravings depicted not only the stunning scenery of regions from Virginia to Patagonia but also the complex interactions between Native Americans and European settlers. These illustrations were not simply based on firsthand observations; they were also shaped by de Bry's imagination, as he never ventured to the New World himself.

Collaborating with talented artists like John White and Jacques Le Moyne, de Bry adapted their watercolors for his series. His family enterprise became renowned for its masterful copper engravings, setting a high standard for quality and artistry in the realm of book publishing.

The impact of de Bry's America was profound, as it influenced countless European illustrations in the centuries that followed. His work provided a foundational perspective of the Atlantic world, making it an essential piece of history for anyone interested in the exploration and colonization of the Americas.

This stunning series, now available in an XXL edition from TASCHEN, reprints all 218 plates from the first nine volumes, allowing a new generation of readers to appreciate the artistry and historical significance of de Bry's vision.

Théodore de Bry. America

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