Ethnography · 19th century
€ 210
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition overall with minor age toning and a few small surface marks in margins. Image strong and well preserved. No tears within the printed area. Ready to frame.
Monoemugi – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (c.1810)
A rare early 19th-century hand-colored engraving depicting two Monoemugi figures inside a traditional thatched structure. The scene shows a young man holding up an animal skin — likely used as clothing or ceremonial dress — while a seated woman looks upward, wrapped partially in a patterned woven textile. Their environment, with bamboo and palm-leaf structures in the background, reflects European era-depictions of Central African culture.
This print was created by J. Kuyper (artist) and L. Portman (engraver) and published in the Netherlands circa 1810 as part of a highly collectible ethnographic series illustrating world cultures during the Age of Exploration. Its coloring remains vivid, with rich earthy tones and finely detailed textures.
A decorative and historical artwork offering insight into early anthropological studies, and an appealing piece for collectors of African history, travel exploration, and antique prints.
Condition report:
Good condition overall with minor age toning and a few small surface marks in margins. Image strong and well preserved. No tears within the printed area. Ready to frame.
Framing tips:
A dark wood or ebony frame paired with a warm white mat will enhance the earthy palette and present the piece in a refined gallery style.
Technique: Hand-colored copperplate engraving
Maker: J. Kuyper (del.), L. Portman (sc.), Netherlands, c.1810
Keywords
Monoemugi, Central Africa, antique ethnographic print, African culture, anthropology, exploration art, hand-colored engraving, early 1800s, copperplate engraving, rare print, traditional clothing, primitive huts, J. Kuyper, L. Portman, historical illustration
