Fashion & Costume · 19th century
€ 170
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition with minor age toning and a few light foxing spots, mostly confined to the borders. The vivid hand colouring remains clear and bright, preserving its antique charm.
This captivating hand-coloured print, titled “Female of Vercelli,” offers a glimpse into the regional attire and daily life of Vercelli, a historic town in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Published in 1835 by J. Dowding in London and illustrated by R. Bridgens, this print is part of the celebrated series “Illustrations of the Manners and Costumes of France, Switzerland and Italy.” Bridgens was known for his attention to authentic details and his ability to bring local traditions to life through vibrant compositions.
At the center of the scene stands a poised woman in traditional Vercelli dress, her clothing a testament to the elegance and practicality of regional style. She wears a deep purple bodice and long sleeves, a bright yellow apron that draws the eye, and a refined white ruffled collar. Her head is crowned with a distinctive headdress, adding an element of sophistication and regional flair. Holding a small red book, she hints at the importance of education or devotion in her daily life.
The background provides a rich tapestry of domestic and communal activity. To the left, a young boy in a hat carries two baskets, his posture and expression suggesting the industrious rhythm of Vercelli’s bustling markets. On the right, a mother seated on a simple wooden chair is tenderly engaged with a small birdcage, while her child sits in a cradle-like contraption, adding a warm, familial note to the composition. The rustic wall behind them, marked with house number “123,” and the soft stone pathways underfoot, further root the scene in the authentic textures of 19th-century village life.
Rendered with delicate hand-coloured detail, this print captures the essence of a time and place where regional identity was expressed through daily dress and routine. It is both a visual delight and a historical record, inviting the viewer to pause and consider the quiet dignity and rich culture of Vercelli’s people.
Condition report: Good condition with minor age toning and a few light foxing spots, mostly confined to the borders. The vivid hand colouring remains clear and bright, preserving its antique charm.
Framing Tips :
Use a classic natural wood or gilt frame with a soft ivory mat to complement the warm hand colouring. UV-protective glass will help retain the crisp, lively details of this 19th-century print.
