Chinese Costumes Pair, Antique Hand-Colored Engravings, Dutch, 1854

About this sheet

A refined and visually striking pair of mid-19th century hand-colored engravings depicting figures from Chinese society, published in a Dutch edition dating to 1854. The prints portray, respectively, a Chinese mandarin of the civil rank and a young Chinese woman, each rendered in richly detailed traditional attire. The costumes are carefully illustrated, showcasing layered garments, embroidered patterns, and accessories that reflect rank, status, and cultural identity within Qing dynasty China.

These engravings belong to a European tradition of ethnographic illustration, produced for an audience eager to explore distant cultures through costume and daily life. The captions in Dutch—“Chineesche Mandaryn van den Civielen Stand” and “Jong Chineesch Meisje”—confirm their origin and context within a Dutch publication, likely intended for educational or decorative use. The hand-coloring enhances the fine engraved lines, bringing vibrancy and depth to each composition while maintaining the elegance of the original printmaking technique.

The sheets remain in good condition overall, with age-appropriate toning, occasional spotting, and light edge wear consistent with mid-19th century paper. Generous margins are present, making them highly suitable for framing either individually or as a complementary pair.

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 print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.

Framing tip: These prints work beautifully as a pair in matching dark wood or ebonized frames with wide ivory mats, creating a balanced and elegant display suited to both classic and contemporary interiors.

Technique: Hand-colored engraving
Maker: European School, Dutch edition, 1854