Fashion & Costume · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good overall condition. Light age toning to the margins, consistent with age. Image area clean with strong color and definition. No major tears or losses observed.Protected by thin paper matting board.
Linzerin – Austrian Folk Costume Print after Eduard Payer, ca. 1880
This finely executed 19th-century color wood engraving depicts a “Linzerin,” a woman from the city of Linz in Upper Austria, shown wearing traditional regional dress. The print is a reproductive work after a painting by the Austrian artist Eduard Payer (1812–1909), who was well known for his alpine landscapes, genre scenes, and studies of regional life and costume.
The figure is presented with a calm, dignified presence, emphasizing the structure and texture of her clothing. The layered garments, subtle shading, and controlled color palette reflect the high quality of German and Austrian chromoxylography of the late 19th century. Fine engraved linework combined with carefully applied color gives the image a painterly appearance while retaining crisp definition.
During this period, such images were produced for illustrated books and cultural publications that documented regional identity and traditional costume within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Prints after Payer’s paintings were especially popular, as they combined artistic refinement with ethnographic interest. This example reflects the era’s fascination with folk culture and the preservation of local traditions at a time of rapid modernization.
Today, the print functions both as a historical document and as an appealing decorative work. Its warm tones and balanced composition make it well suited for classic, alpine, or European country-style interiors, as well as contemporary spaces where historic imagery adds character and depth.
Condition report:
Good overall condition. Light age toning to the margins, consistent with age. Image area clean with strong color and definition. No major tears or losses observed. Protected by a thin paper matting board.
Framing suggestions:
A natural oak or walnut frame with an off-white or light oatmeal mat will complement the paper tone and enhance the costume colors. Museum glass is recommended for protection.
Technique: Color wood engraving (chromoxylography)
Maker: After Eduard Payer, Austria, ca. 1870–1885
