Fashion & Costume · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Age-related toning and occasional minor spotting to the paper, with light edge wear consistent with age. Overall in good condition with attractive original hand-coloring and wide margins.
Spanish American from Mexico Antique Costume Lithograph c.1852
This elegant nineteenth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts a “Spaansch Amerikaan uit Mexico,” translated from Dutch as a Spanish American from Mexico. The figure is shown in richly detailed traditional attire, standing confidently with a staff and wrapped in a vividly striped cloak, reflecting the romanticized fascination with Mexican and Spanish-American culture that flourished in Europe during the nineteenth century.
The costume combines elements associated with colonial Spanish fashion and regional Mexican dress traditions. Particularly striking are the broad-brimmed hat, embroidered jacket, fitted trousers, decorative sash, and colorful serape-like mantle draped over the shoulder. These details would have appealed strongly to European audiences interested in the exoticism and visual richness of the Americas during the Romantic era.
During the mid-nineteenth century, illustrated costume series became highly popular throughout Europe. Publishers issued collections portraying peoples from around the world, presenting regional dress, customs, and identities in an artistic and accessible format. Mexico, with its blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and colonial influences, held particular fascination for artists and travelers. Prints such as this served both as ethnographic imagery and decorative art, intended for collectors fascinated by world cultures and picturesque costume traditions.
The hand-coloring is especially attractive, with deep blacks, warm ochres, vivid reds, and subtle blues bringing life and movement to the figure. The lithographic technique allowed for refined linework while preserving the expressive textures of fabric and ornamentation. The large surrounding margins and uncluttered background place full emphasis on the costume itself, enhancing the print’s decorative quality.
The print is an original antique lithograph, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Condition: Age-related toning and occasional minor spotting to the paper, with light edge wear consistent with age. Overall in good condition with attractive original hand-coloring and wide margins.
Framing tips: Particularly effective in a dark walnut, black, or lightly gilt frame with a warm ivory or parchment-toned mat. Excellent when paired with other nineteenth-century costume or ethnographic prints.
Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Dutch, circa 1852
