Ethnography · 19th century
€ 210
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition with light age toning and a few handling spots in the margins. Image itself remains clean and well-preserved. No fold lines within the printed area. Ready for framing.
Loangers – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (c.1810)
Finely hand-colored early 19th-century ethnographic print depicting a family from Loango, a Central African coastal region associated with the Kingdom of Loango (present-day Republic of the Congo, Cabinda, and surrounding territories). The engraving shows a man pointing outward while holding a long spear, accompanied by a woman carrying a child on her back. Their attire includes patterned wrappers, jewelry, and handcrafted adornments — elements reflecting traditional dress as interpreted by European illustrators during the Age of Exploration.
Drawn by J. Kuyper and engraved by L. Portman, this engraving was issued in the early 1800s as part of a series of world cultures plates. The print is notable for its rich hand-applied coloration — warm earth tones, detailed fabrics, and lush tropical landscape — giving it both documentary interest and strong decorative appeal.
A striking historical ethnographic work that provides insight into period-imagined representations of African communities, now valued by scholars and collectors alike.
Condition report:
Good condition with light age toning and a few handling spots in the margins. Image itself remains clean and well-preserved. No fold lines within the printed area. Ready for framing.
Framing recommendations:
A dark wood or black frame will contrast beautifully with the vibrant colors. A natural linen or warm white mat provides a museum-style presentation.
Technique: Hand-colored copperplate engraving
Maker: J. Kuyper (artist), L. Portman (engraver), Netherlands, c.1810
Keywords
Loango, Kingdom of Loango, Central Africa, Congo, antique print, ethnographic art, hand-colored engraving, early 19th century, cultural history, anthropology, traditional dress, African heritage, exploration art, copperplate engraving, J. Kuyper, L. Portman, rare print
