Theodore de Bry's America Engravings Reveal European Perceptions of New World

In 1590, the first volume of Theodore de Bry's America series was published, marking a significant introduction of the New World to Europeans through engravings inspired by the travel narratives of Thomas Harriot, Sir Francis Drake, and Sir Walter Raleigh. This series, which consists of nine volumes, illustrates various scenes from Virginia (present-day North Carolina), Florida, Central America, and Patagonia, highlighting interactions between Native Americans and Europeans. Although de Bry never set foot in the Americas, he blended explorers' accounts with his creative vision. His work began in London, where he collaborated with artist John White, even though he was primarily based in Frankfurt.