Fashion & Costume
€ 170
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
This antique print is in very good condition, with some minor age-related toning and light foxing consistent with its age. The hand coloring remains vivid and the paper has a beautifully textured finish.
Costume Print: Italian Goatherd in the Hills, 1820s Hand-Colored Engraving
This charming hand-colored engraving portrays an Italian goatherd in traditional dress, set against the idyllic backdrop of the Italian countryside. Published in the 1820s by Baldwin, Cradock & Joy, this piece is part of a series depicting the regional attire and occupations of Italy, offering a vivid window into the daily lives of rural communities.
The central figure is a young goatherd dressed in a striking blue coat over a red waistcoat and light-colored trousers covered with sheepskin for warmth and protection. His hat is adorned with a small feather, adding a rustic touch of individuality to his attire. He carries a bundle of wooden implements slung over his shoulder and a sturdy staff in his hand—a tool of both guidance and defense for his herd.
The background reveals a gentle landscape with rolling hills, scattered trees, and a small herd of white goats grazing along the slope. The finely detailed vegetation and distant hills, combined with the meticulous hand coloring, bring to life the pastoral tranquility of the Italian countryside.
These prints were produced for an English audience eager to learn about the distinctive regional identities of Italy, and they provided a colorful record of traditional occupations and costumes. The engravings’ crisp lines and rich, natural colors capture both the simplicity and the dignity of rural life in early 19th-century Italy.
Condition:
This antique print is in very good condition, with some minor age-related toning and light foxing consistent with its age. The hand coloring remains vivid and the paper has a beautifully textured finish.
Framing tips:
For an elegant and authentic display, pair this print with a warm beige or cream mat and a natural wood or antique gold frame. This will highlight the rich, earthy tones of the goatherd’s clothing and the soft greens of the landscape, creating a timeless piece of pastoral art.
