Views of Saqqara, Dahshur, and Thebes Pyramids with Ancient Babylon, c.1710

Views of Saqqara, Dahshur, and Thebes Pyramids with Ancient Babylon, c.1710

Description:

This compelling composite engraving from the early 18th century features multiple scenic views of ancient Egyptian landmarks, including Saqqara, Dahshur, Thebes, and the remains of old Babylon. Originating from the Dutch edition of Cornelis de Bruijn’s travel accounts (*Reizen door de vermaardste Deelen van Klein Asia*), this plate, numbered “Pl. VIII”, offers a rare visual documentation of Egypt’s monumental landscape as seen by a European traveler around 1710 to 1724.

The upper register, titled “Gezigt van den berg Mokattam, het oude Babylon,” shows a wide panoramic view of the ancient fortress of Babylon (near modern Cairo) with its surrounding landscape, tents, and native dwellings on the banks of the Nile. A detailed rendering of a European vessel, complete with flags and soldiers, floats prominently in the foreground.

The middle panel, captioned “Gezigt der Pyramiden van Dafhour en van Sakara,” presents a lateral view of the pyramids of Dahshur and Saqqara, including the iconic bent and step pyramids. These silhouettes are notable for their irregularities, a clear indication of early architectural experimentation in Old Kingdom Egypt.

The lower strip includes two vignettes. The left shows the crumbling ruins of an ancient structure labeled as the “Reste van Keizer Hadrijs” (the ruins of Emperor Hadrian), alongside the “Muur van Elephantine” (wall of Elephantine). On the right, a view labeled “Gezigt der Pyramiden van Thebe” shows pyramid structures and funerary temples west of Thebes (modern Luxor), giving a comparative look at Upper Egypt’s necropolises.

Cornelis de Bruijn (1652 to 1726/27) was one of the earliest European travelers to depict the Egyptian landscape directly from observation. His works predate the Napoleonic scientific expeditions and are highly valued for their combination of cartographic, architectural, and artistic detail.

Condition:

Very good condition overall. Light vertical centerfolds as issued. Slight age toning at the outer margins and a few small creases. Plate image clean and strongly inked with good contrast.

Framing tips:

This horizontal composition lends itself well to panoramic framing. A slim black or antiqued gold frame with a cream or parchment-colored mat would enhance the historic feel. Museum-grade glass will help preserve the delicate details.

Technique: Copperplate engraving

Maker: After Cornelis de Bruijn, The Netherlands, early 18th century