About this sheet
Antique Persian Costume Prints, Hand-Colored Orientalist Lithographs
A beautiful pair of mid-19th century hand-colored lithographs depicting Persian figures in traditional costume, published circa 1852. These richly detailed ethnographic portraits present two contrasting representations of Persian society: one showing a nobleman or dignitary dressed in luxurious court attire, and the other portraying a Persian man in elegant regional costume holding a ceremonial club or weapon.
The left figure, identified as “Perziaan uit den aanzienlijken stand” (“Persian of distinguished rank”), is particularly striking for his sumptuous crimson robe trimmed with fur and decorated with gold braid. His elaborate headdress, patterned footwear, and curved sword emphasize the aristocratic character of the subject and reflect European fascination with the opulence of Persian court culture during the 19th century. The companion print portrays a standing Persian figure dressed in flowing blue garments with a tall black hat and sash, rendered with equal attention to costume and posture.
Executed in finely detailed lithography with original hand-coloring, these prints combine documentary interest with strong decorative appeal. The restrained backgrounds focus attention entirely on the expressive costumes, textures, and weaponry. Their elegant vertical format and generous original margins give them a refined and highly displayable appearance, particularly suitable for collectors of Orientalist material, Islamic art themes, or ethnographic costume studies.
Sets such as this were often issued in European geographical and ethnographic publications documenting the peoples, dress, and customs of Asia and the Middle East for Western audiences. Today they remain highly attractive decorative works, appreciated for both their historical value and vivid period coloring.
This pair would display beautifully framed side-by-side in a study, library, hotel interior, or globally inspired living space. Dark walnut, ebonized, or Persian-inspired frames with warm ivory matting would complement the deep reds and blues particularly well.
Condition report: Overall in good condition with age-related toning and occasional scattered foxing consistent with age. Minor edge wear and light handling marks visible at the margins. Original hand-coloring remains fresh and attractive. Large original margins preserved.
The prints are original antique lithographs, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The pieces are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Technique: Original hand-colored lithographs
Maker: Dutch, circa 1852
