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Arab Knife Grinder – Cairo Egypt, Compte-Calix Hand-Colored Print 1853

$271.24
£203.03
€230
CA$373.30
A$416.09
CHF 218.31
MX$5,081.10
NOK 2,764.24
SEK 2,612.62
DKK 1,750.92

About the Item

Arab Knife Grinder Print Cairo Egypt 1853 by Compte-Calix – Hand-Colored Lithograph This fascinating antique print depicts an Arab knife grinder (Rémouleur Arabe) in Cairo, Egypt. Created by François Claudius Compte-Calix, it was published in Paris in 1853 by Chez Aubert et C-ie as part of the prestigious Le Keepsake de Costumes series, which illustrated traditional costumes and occupations from across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East in refined artistic detail. François Claudius Compte-Calix (1813-1880) was a renowned French painter and lithographer known for his romantic, historical, and ethnographic subjects. His works combine decorative refinement with documentary accuracy, preserving cultural scenes with elegance and authenticity. This hand-colored lithograph, part of the Musée Cosmopolite collection, depicts the knife grinder working with focus and dedication, operating a large sharpening wheel. He wears a white turban, a sleeveless red vest over a white shirt, blue-grey trousers rolled up to the knee, and bright yellow slippers. His muscular posture and intense gaze capture the dignity of his craft. The lithographic lines create depth and texture, while the careful hand coloring enhances the vividness of his attire and the realism of the stone and wood textures in his environment. Lithography, the technique used here, involved drawing directly onto limestone plates before inking and pressing onto paper, resulting in crisp lines and fine detail. The prints were then hand-colored using water-based pigments, adding depth, vibrancy, and lifelike presence to each image. Condition summary: good condition overall, with light age toning typical for mid-19th century prints, and some dirt spots around the border due to handling. Framing tips: this print will be beautifully presented in a dark wood, walnut, or black frame to echo the strong lines and traditional craft scene, or a gold frame for a refined touch. A cream or warm beige mat will enhance the vivid hand coloring and provide subtle contrast with the aged paper. Museum-quality UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colors and prevent further toning. This lithograph is ideal for collectors of Egyptian cultural history, Middle Eastern ethnographic art, and 19th-century costume prints. It also makes an excellent decorative accent for studies, libraries, cultural institutions, or interiors seeking authentic historical elegance, bringing a glimpse of Cairo’s artisan life into any refined setting.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9.26 in (23.5 cm)Width: 13 in (33 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1853
  • Condition:
    Condition summary: good condition overall, with light age toning typical for mid-19th century prints, and some dirt spots around the border due to handling.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13329-171stDibs: LU3054345751382

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