Penang - Sainson c.1833

Title: Antique Print of Penang (Prince of Wales Island) from the Sea
Cartographer/Artist: After Louis Auguste de Sainson (Official Artist of the Astrolabe)
Origin: From Voyage de la corvette l'Astrolabe, published by Tastu, Paris.
Date: c. 1833 (Depicting 1820s scene)
Technique: Lithograph (original hand-colouring)

Description: A serene and historically significant panoramic view of Penang (Prince of Wales Island) during the early British colonial period. The print captures the bustling maritime activity of the Malacca Straits, featuring a diverse array of vessels including a large European merchantman, local Malay perahus, and smaller coastal traders.

In the background, the rising topography of Penang Hill provides a dramatic backdrop to the low-lying settlement of George Town. The fine detailing showcases the lush tropical coastline and the distant silhouettes of colonial structures. This plate is a testament to the French scientific expeditions of the early 19th century, which sought to document the geographic and cultural landscapes of Southeast Asia with artistic precision.