The Tupinambá’s Treatment of Prisoners of War

anonymous, anonymous, anoniem, anoniem, c. 1630

In the 17th century, Europeans were enthralled by the original inhabitants of South America. Their (reputed) cannibalism spoke to the imagination. This painting was in the possession of the Dutch West India Company in Amsterdam. Much of the scene is fantasized and says more about the Western perspective of the New World than the actual life of the Tupinambá people.

  • Artwork typepainting
  • Object numberSK-A-4066
  • Dimensionsheight 42 cm x width 220.4 cm x depth 11 cm, height 33.5 cm x width 189 cm, height 50 cm x width 230 cm, depth 10 cm
  • Physical characteristicsoil on panel