About this sheet
North African Costumes & Figures Set of 4, Racinet Afrique Plates, 1888
A visually rich and culturally layered set of four chromolithographs from 1888, drawn from Auguste Racinet’s celebrated Le Costume Historique. These plates, titled “Afrique,” present a diverse and detailed survey of traditional dress, daily life, and social types across North Africa and the Saharan regions.
Each composition is arranged in Racinet’s characteristic structured format, combining ethnographic observation with refined decorative balance. The scenes depict a wide range of figures, including Bedouin women, Egyptian fellahin, water carriers, Kabyle men from Algeria, Saharan travelers equipped with muskets, and mothers with children. Other plates expand this visual narrative with Moorish women in urban attire, Arab dignitaries, Jewish women from Algeria, dancers, and figures representing both rural life and city culture.
The prints capture not only clothing but also gesture, posture, and everyday objects—offering insight into identity, profession, and regional diversity. Textiles are rendered with exceptional attention, from layered robes and striped garments to veils, head coverings, and richly colored fabrics. Accessories such as musical instruments, vessels, and tools further enhance the storytelling quality of the compositions.
Produced in Paris by Firmin-Didot et Cie and lithographed by Urrabieta and Brandin, these chromolithographs exemplify the technical excellence of late 19th-century printing, with crisp outlines and a warm, harmonious color palette that remains vivid today.
Racinet’s work is widely regarded as one of the most influential visual encyclopedias of global costume, and these plates stand out for their strong decorative appeal and ethnographic depth. As a set, they create a compelling wall composition, ideal for both collectors and interior designers seeking cultural richness and visual cohesion.
Good condition overall. Light age toning and minor spotting in the margins. Some edge wear and small imperfections consistent with age. Images remain clean with strong, vibrant colors.
Framing tips:
Best presented as a unified set with consistent framing. Use wide ivory mats and dark walnut, black, or subtle gilt frames. Hanging as a grid (2x2) creates a strong, balanced visual statement.
Special note: This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. The prints are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
