The city of Palembang with its three Forts c1745

Title: The City of Palembang with its three Forts
Origin: From the English edition of Abbé Prévost’s Histoire Générale des Voyages (or similar contemporary travel compendium)
Published: London, c. 1745–1755
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand-coloring

Description: This fine panoramic view depicts Palembang, situated on the Musi River in southern Sumatra, during a period of intense colonial interest. The print illustrates the city’s strategic military and commercial layout, emphasizing the river-bound nature of the settlement. The foreground shows a variety of maritime vessels, including large European merchant ships and smaller local craft, set against the backdrop of the city’s dense urban architecture and fortified positions.

A notable feature of this print is the extensive "Directions" (Key) in the upper-left corner, providing an alphabetical guide (A through Q) to the city’s major landmarks, including:

• A, B, C: The three primary forts protecting the city.

• E: A chain across the river, a common defensive measure to control maritime traffic.

• M: The Royal Palace, marking the seat of the Sultanate.

• Q: "Very large tree Payans," highlighting significant natural landmarks used by navigators.

• Authenticity: Original mid-18th-century copperplate engraving.

• Historical Significance: Documents the urban and military landscape of a vital Sumatran sultanate before the height of 19th-century colonial intervention.

• Visual Appeal: The combination of a detailed topographical "bird's-eye" perspective with vibrant original coloring and an informative key makes this a premiere document for collectors of Indonesian history.