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Antique Costume Print of African Prince in Ceremonial Dress, 1854
$344.40
£254.95
€290
CA$474.50
A$528.66
CHF 275.99
MX$6,418.64
NOK 3,468.96
SEK 3,279.01
DKK 2,208.11
About the Item
Antique Costume Print of African Prince in Ceremonial Dress, 1854
This richly hand-colored lithograph, published in 1854 in Album des Voyages Anciens et Modernes by Martial Ardant Frères, depicts an “Prince Africain” (African Prince) in ceremonial costume. The figure is shown front-facing, holding a long spear in one hand and a curved sword in the other, dressed in an elaborate robe of striped red, green, and gold. The wide tunic is complemented by loose blue trousers, leather footwear, and an ornate black and gold sash to which several decorated gourds or containers are attached. Covering his head is a voluminous red turban, while his lower face is wrapped with a white veil, leaving only his eyes visible.
This image embodies the 19th-century European fascination with distant cultures, recorded in travel albums that combined ethnographic observation with artistic interpretation. While often stylized, such prints reflected both admiration and exoticism, serving to introduce European audiences to the costumes and perceived grandeur of African rulers and warriors. The richly patterned garments, ceremonial weaponry, and imposing stance underline the dignity and status associated with African nobility.
During the mid-19th century, Africa was increasingly a subject of exploration and colonial interest for Europeans. Prints like this one reinforced the allure of the continent while also framing its peoples within a lens of romanticized “otherness.” Today, this work is an important historical artifact: not only as a decorative and finely colored costume print, but also as a reflection of how Africans were represented in 19th-century European publishing.
The lithograph retains a striking vibrancy in its coloring, with the bright red turban and striped robe standing out against the pale background. Its stylistic qualities—clean outlines, vivid colors, and the mix of weaponry and costume—make it an appealing print for collectors of African history, costume studies, and 19th-century travel imagery.
Condition report: Paper shows some faint spotting and toning, mainly in the margins, consistent with age. Image itself clean with strong colors. Plate mark visible. Margins full and well-preserved.
Framing tips: A black or ebony frame with a wide white mat will emphasize the bold contrasts of the costume. For a warmer presentation, a dark walnut or gold-leaf frame with a cream mat can enhance the richness of the red and gold details in the robe and turban.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Martial Ardant Frères, Paris & Limoges, 1854
- Dimensions:Height: 10.71 in (27.2 cm)Width: 7.09 in (18 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1854
- Condition:Condition report: Paper shows some faint spotting and toning, mainly in the margins, consistent with age. Image itself clean with strong colors. Plate mark visible. Margins full and well-preserved.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-14120-21stDibs: LU3054346396732
About the Seller
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