A Negro Dance in the Island of Dominica

Date1779

Designed and engraved by Agostino Brunias

MediumHand-colored etching and stipple engraving with line engraving

Dimensions9 1/4" x 13"

Credit LineGift of the John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, Fund, Inc., through the generosity and interest of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, and members of the family.

Object number1979-176

DescriptionThis plate has been trimmed beyond the margin. The title and dedication on another copy of this print print in the British Museum reads: "A. Brunias Pinx..t et Sculp.t/ THIS PLATE (representing a NEGROES DANCE/ in the ISLAND of DOMINICA) / to the Hon.ble Charles O'Hara, BRIGADIER/ GENERAL of his Majestys Army in America,/ Col.. of Foot, & Lieu.t Col. of the Coldstream Regiment of Foot Gaurds. by his most obed.t & devoted Serv.t/ London Published 15 Feb.y 1779. by the Proprietor, N. Broad Street, Soho. A Brunias."
Label TextThe work of London-based Italian painter Agostino Brunias was characterized by his paintings and prints of Black and mixed-race subjects in the Caribbean. His portrayals paint the slave societies of the Caribbean (or as they were known int he period the West Indies) in a flattering and sanitized light, however his portrayals of subjects of African descent are treated with detail and attention that was unusual for this time period. He travelled to the Caribbean in 1770 as the personal painter of Sir William Young who was the Governor of Dominica. During his time in the Caribbean, he made paintings of free people of color, colonists, and slaves, often engaging in leisure activities such as dances or shopping in a market. Brunias marketed his paintings and prints to the British market. These portrayals, obscure the realities of slavery, are important documents of the dress, culture, and lives of free and Black people of the Caribbean.