About this sheet
Barbary Ladies in Morning and Ceremonial Dress, Costume Engravings, 1749
A refined and highly decorative pair of hand-colored costume engravings depicting “A Morning Habit of a Lady of Quality in Barbary, in 1700” and “Full Dress of a Lady of Quality in Barbary, in 1700.” Together, these plates present a rare and elegant visual contrast between informal and ceremonial attire, offering insight into the dress and refinement associated with North African elite culture as understood in early modern Europe.
The first figure is shown in a more relaxed morning attire, wearing a softly draped blue garment with flowing sleeves and a patterned sash, her posture natural and expressive. The second plate presents a striking ceremonial composition, with the figure enveloped in a richly layered white garment accented with red and gold bands, the fabric dramatically extended to emphasize movement, status, and presence. Together, the pair creates a balanced dialogue between intimacy and grandeur, making them particularly compelling when displayed side by side.
Produced in the 18th century and referencing the year 1700, these engravings belong to the European tradition of ethnographic costume studies, which sought to document global dress and cultural identity. The term “Barbary” refers historically to the North African regions along the Mediterranean, including present-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya—areas long associated with trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange with Europe.
Both engravings are finely executed with delicate line work and enhanced with original hand-coloring, giving warmth and vibrancy to the compositions. The generous margins and visible platemarks further emphasize their authenticity and make them highly suitable for framing.
This pair is ideal for collectors and interior designers seeking symmetry and narrative in wall decoration. Whether placed in a study, hallway, or refined living space, the combination of morning and ceremonial dress offers both visual harmony and historical depth.
Special note: This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The prints are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Condition:
Both prints are in good condition with age-related toning and light spotting as visible. Clear and well-defined platemarks. Margins intact with minor edge wear and slight irregularities consistent with age.
Framing tips:
Best presented as a pair in matching dark walnut or ebonized frames with wide ivory mats to create a strong gallery effect. For a more decorative or Middle Eastern-inspired interior, softly gilded frames can enhance the richness and contrast of the garments. Hang symmetrically with equal spacing for maximum visual impact.
Keywords:
Barbary, North Africa, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Ottoman Empire, African costume, ethnographic print, traditional dress, ceremonial dress, morning dress, 1700, hand colored engraving, antique prints, cultural dress, travel illustration, historical costume, Bartele Gallery, decorative wall art, collectible prints, pair of engravings
Technique: Copper engravings with original hand-coloring
Maker: European School, circa 1749
