Chinese Cultural Figures in 1844 Wahlen Lithographs of Dress and Traditions

€ 740

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1844
Sheet size: 25.7 × 17 cm (10.1 × 6.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-12722-2 etc

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

Given age. Faintly browned, and with some small stains. Some glue remains (from binding) in the far left margin (not affecting image). General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study the scans.

About this sheet

These colorful lithographs represent a variety of Chinese cultural figures, including a noblewoman with her servant, traditional Chinese junks (boats), a Chinese soldier, the Emperor of China, a Chinese monk, and a Jesuit missionary to China.

The prints are part of Auguste Wahlen's renowned work "Moeurs, Usages et Costumes de tous les Peuples de Monde" (Customs, Manners and Dress of All the Peoples of the World), published in 1844. The technique used is hand-colored lithography with Arabic gum on vellum paper, which enhances the vibrancy of the colors and details.

Attractiveness:
These prints are especially attractive due to their meticulous attention to cultural and sartorial details, capturing the elaborate costumes, accessories, and environments of different Chinese social classes. The fine craftsmanship, vivid colors, and cultural representation make them visually captivating and historically significant.