Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1852
Mapmaker / artist
European school, Dutch, circa 1852
Technique
Original hand-colored lithograph
Sheet size
26.3 × 17 cm (10.4 × 6.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14288-15
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Good antique condition with age toning, scattered foxing, and light surface wear consistent with age and handling. Minor marginal wear and small handling marks at edges. Original hand-coloring remains fresh and visually attractive.
An elegant and uncommon mid-19th century hand-colored lithograph depicting a noble figure from the Ryukyu Islands, titled “Inboorling der Lieukhieu-Eilanden” (“Native of the Loochoo or Ryukyu Islands”). The sitter is portrayed in flowing blue robes with a decorative sash and ceremonial feather fan, rendered with refined ethnographic detail and graceful posture.
The Ryukyu Islands, today forming part of Okinawa, occupied a unique cultural position between Japan, China, and the wider maritime world of East Asia. During the 19th century these islands fascinated European travelers and publishers due to their distinct court culture, diplomatic traditions, and richly layered costume heritage. Prints depicting Ryukyuan subjects are considerably scarcer than comparable Japanese costume studies, giving this work strong collector appeal.
The composition is particularly striking for its simplicity and elegance. The vivid cobalt-blue robe contrasts beautifully against the warm paper tone, while the feathered ceremonial fan adds movement and decorative refinement. The elongated figure and minimalist setting create a sophisticated visual balance that feels remarkably modern despite its age.
Produced during the great European period of ethnographic and travel illustration, the lithograph combines documentary curiosity with decorative artistry. It works beautifully as a standalone framed piece or alongside Japanese and Korean costume studies from the same era.
This print displays exceptionally well in dark walnut, black lacquer, or ebonized frames with generous ivory mats, especially in Japandi interiors, curated libraries, studies, and Asian-inspired spaces. The restrained palette and generous margins give the work a refined museum-like presentation.
The print is an original antique lithograph, not a reproduction. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
