Set of 6 Antique Kingston Jamaica Engravings A Duperly 19th Century

A rare matched set of six original 19th-century engraved views of Kingston, Jamaica, after daguerreotype photographs by A. Duperly.

These engravings were:

• Photographed by A. Duperly (Kingston)

• Lithographed by Ph. Benoist

• Printed in Paris by Thierry Brothers

This is proper early photographic history – these scenes were taken directly from daguerreotypes and then translated into lithographic engravings, making them historically important documents of colonial Jamaica.

The set includes:

• View of Church Street

• View of the Court House

• View of Coke Chapel

• View of King Street

• View of the Ordnance Yard (x2)

Beautifully detailed street scenes showing everyday Victorian life – palm trees, crowds, carts, colonial architecture and period dress.

Details

• Photographer: Adolphe Duperly (A. Duperly)

• Lithographer: Ph. Benoist

• Printer: Thierry Brothers, Paris

• Published: Kingston, Jamaica

• Date: c. 1840s–1860s

• Medium: Lithographic engravings on paper

• Quantity: 6 framed prints

• Frames: Later black frames in fair condition. Would benefit from restoration and professional reframe 

• Ready to hang

Plate size 16 cm x 25 cm approximately 

Historical context 

Adolphe Duperly was one of the earliest photographers in Jamaica, active mid-19th century.

These images were taken from his original daguerreotypes, making them some of the 

earliest photographic records of Kingston ever published.

Condition

Original antique condition:

• Foxing & spotting

• Light water marks

• Age patina

• Minor frame wear

No major tears.

Images remain clear and strong.

Unrestored – honest condition

Condition Note

Original antique condition consistent with age and tropical climate exposure.

Notable features include:

• Light foxing and age spotting

• Small historic insect marks to paper

• Minor water staining

• Natural patina throughout

This type of insect evidence is typical of 19th-century Caribbean works that have spent time in Jamaica and should be viewed as part of their historical character.

No active infestation.

Structurally sound.

Images remain clear and strong.