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Rites of the World
Hindu Festival Procession with Vishnu Cart, Engraving after Sonnerat, 1806
Anno Domini MDCCCVI1806
$305
€270 · £230
Original print, not a reproduction
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- Date
- 1806
- Sheet size
- 11.2 × 15.4 in (28.5 × 39 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Good condition overall. Vertical fold line as issued, with light discoloration at the fold. General age-related toning and light spotting in the margins. Image area remains clean with strong impression.
- Faith
- Hinduism
- Collection
- Rites of the World
- Era
- 1800 to 1849, Travellers and the costume books
- Stock no.
- f_46086952
Hindu Festival Procession with Vishnu Cart, Engraving after Sonnerat, 1806
This antique engraving presents a detailed depiction of a Hindu religious procession featuring a large chariot carrying a statue of the deity Vishnu. The scene is full of energy and movement, with a large group of men hauling the impressive cart, while musicians and dancers lead the way. The chariot itself is shaped like a tiered temple structure, complete with ornamental roof elements, flags, and sculptural details. A figure of Vishnu is seated within the shrine, under a domed canopy supported by carved pillars, and drawn by oxen.
Titled "Fête de Térotom, ou Course du Char", this image represents a stylized version of an Indian Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival, resembling those celebrated in honor of Lord Jagannath in the city of Puri. The print comes from the work "Voyage aux Indes Orientales et à la Chine" by Pierre Sonnerat, a French naturalist, explorer and draughtsman who traveled extensively through South Asia and Southeast Asia in the late 18th century. The engraving was executed by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Poisson, a skilled French engraver known for his detailed and expressive work.
This 1806 edition reflects both European curiosity and early attempts to document and interpret Eastern cultures. Though drawn through a colonial lens, it offers insight into 18th- and early 19th-century representations of Indian religious practices as seen by Western observers. The engraving combines artistic precision with documentary interest, making it a valuable addition to collections focused on Orientalist art, historical travel prints, or religious iconography.
Condition report:
Good condition overall. Vertical fold line as issued, with light discoloration at the fold. General age-related toning and light spotting in the margins. Image area remains clean with strong impression.
Framing tips:
We suggest framing in dark wood or black with a wide off-white or linen mat. This will bring out the contrast in the engraving and emphasize the fine architectural details of the chariot structure.
Technique: Engraving
Maker: J.-B.-M. Poisson after Pierre Sonnerat, Paris, 1806
