Antique Engraving of Guayaquil, Waterfront and Harbor City View, 1867

Antique Engraving of Guayaquil, Waterfront and Harbor View, 1867

Fine 19th-century engraving titled Guayaquil, published in 1867. The view captures the bustling waterfront of Ecuador’s largest port city, with wooden houses built on stilts lining the shore and a lively scene of figures loading and unloading goods. Ships with tall masts are anchored in the harbor, emphasizing the city’s importance as a hub of Pacific trade. In the foreground, people are shown carrying bundles and working near the water’s edge, while palm trees rise above the structures, lending an unmistakably tropical atmosphere.

Drawn by Lebreton and engraved by Ph. Delaunay, with printing by Ch. Chardon in Paris, this engraving was part of a European-published series of city views of South America. During the mid-19th century, Guayaquil was recognized not only as Ecuador’s key port but also as a thriving center for commerce, shipbuilding, and cocoa trade, making it a vital link between the Pacific coast and international markets.

Condition: Very good, with mild toning and scattered foxing in the margins, not affecting the image. Plate impression strong with crisp details. Blank verso. Please study the image carefully.

Framing tips: A wide ivory or cream mat will highlight the lively line work of the engraving. A dark wood or black frame will provide a formal scholarly presentation, while a gilt frame can lend elegance and complement the warm tones of the print’s paper.

Technique: Engraving on paper

Maker: Drawn by Lebreton, engraved by Ph. Delaunay, printed by Ch. Chardon, Paris, 1867