Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur (1757–1810) – Procession au Temple du Serpent – Engraving (Late 18th Century)

Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur (1757–1810) – Procession au Temple du Serpent – Engraving (Late 18th Century)
This remarkable engraving, titled Procession au Temple du Serpent, was created by Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur, a French engraver known for his vivid depictions of cultural rituals and exotic traditions. The composition showcases a grand procession towards the Temple of the Serpent, where rows of participants in ceremonial attire march in unison. The procession is meticulously detailed, with various ranks and roles identified in the banner above, reflecting a structured ritualistic order. Surrounding the event, the lush tropical landscape frames the ceremony, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance of the ritual. Grasset de Saint-Sauveur’s artistic approach captures the mystique and solemnity of the procession, offering European audiences a glimpse into the distant and unfamiliar customs of African and Caribbean societies. This engraving is part of a series documenting African and Caribbean ceremonial practices during the late 18th century. Grasset de Saint-Sauveur's work contributed to the European fascination with ethnographic studies, presenting visually captivating representations of cultural diversity and traditional rites. His engravings often appeared in travel books and cultural studies, serving as historical records of these unique practices.Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur (1757–1810) was a French diplomat, artist, and engraver known for his detailed depictions of foreign lands and their customs. His works contributed significantly to European views of Africa, Asia, and the Americas during the late 18th century. Grasset de Saint-Sauveur's engravings were widely published in encyclopedic volumes and travel accounts, serving as both artistic representations and documentary records of non-European cultures.Artist or Maker:Jacques Grasset de Saint-SauveurDimensions:26 cm x 34 cmMedium:EngravingDate:Late 18th CenturyCondition Report:This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.