Bernard Picart (1673-1733) - Royal Elephant Procession of Pegu (Burma)

An Extraordinary 18th-Century Chronicle of South-East Asian RoyaltyImmerse yourself in the majestic aura of the historical Kingdom of Pegu (modern-day Myanmar) with this magnificent, large-format copperplate engraving. Masterfully drafted and directed by the iconic French Enlightenment artist Bernard Picart (1673–1733), this work captures the spectacular scale of the sacred and royal festival known as "Sapan Giacche." Published in Amsterdam during the 1720s-1730s as a key plate for the landmark series "Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses de tous les peuples du monde," this engraving is a rare testament to early European ethnographic fascination with European-Asian diplomatic and religious encounters.The Grandeur of the Elephant CortegeThe composition is exceptionally dynamic, organized along a sweeping, serpentine path that leads the viewer's eye from the foreground deep into a lush, tropical mountainous landscape. In the lower tier, an array of ceremonial guards and infantry armed with spears leads the march. They are followed by a magnificent line of royal white elephants, heavily caparisoned and carrying sacred umbrellas (parasols), symbols of supreme Buddhist kingship. In the background, the King and Queen of Pegu can be seen riding atop their royal mount, surrounded by a mounted cavalry. Picart's legendary precision in burin and etching lines brings out the textures of the rich textiles, the animals, and the atmospheric sky.Condition and Decorative AppealThe print is beautifully housed in a tailored, deep black wooden frame highlighted by an elegant golden inner lip. The framing perfectly accentuates the rich contrast of the monochrome ink and the natural, warm tone of the historical paper, making it an immediate, high-end centerpiece for sophisticated interior design collections. Note on Authenticity: An original, early 18th-century impressions on fine laid paper, showcasing the characteristic central fold from its original publication format. Condition: Very Good (authentic age-toning, minor professional archival marks, structure and frame are excellent). Material: 18th-century laid paper.Technique: Etching and engraving.Period: circa 1725–1728. Colour: Black/anthracite monochrome ink on ivory paper. Signature: Signed and titled in the plate 1729 (partially or totally covered by the passepartout but documented bibliographically). Print size cm. 31,5 x cm. 21,5.The lot will be appropriately packaged and shipped via approved couriers with online tracking. This lot cannot be shipped outside the European Union.