Title: Antique Javanese Costume Lithographs – Set of Five by F. Hardouin, c.1840

About this sheet

Antique Javanese Costume Lithographs – Set of Five by F. Hardouin, c.1840

This fine set of five original lithographs offers a vivid and romanticized portrayal of Javanese life in the early 19th century, as observed and recorded by the artist F. Hardouin in Batavia (now Jakarta). Printed in Paris by the celebrated lithographic workshop of Lemercier around 1840, these works belong to the important series “Costumes de l’île de Java,” one of the earliest visual records of Javanese costume, daily activities, and performance traditions intended for a European audience.

Each lithograph captures a different aspect of Java’s rich cultural world. The first shows a graceful dancer accompanied by the gamelan, richly attired in elaborate batik and golden ornaments, a reference to the island’s courtly traditions. The second plate depicts a Javanese man in formal attire, wearing a patterned batik sarong and jacket, standing in a rural landscape. The third portrays a Javanese clergyman, his long flowing robe and head covering emphasizing dignity and status within the local community. The fourth presents a Topeng dancer in dramatic pose, accompanied by villagers, reflecting the theatrical traditions of masked dance deeply embedded in Javanese ritual and entertainment. The final plate depicts a woman bathing by the riverbank, wrapped in a sarong, an intimate glimpse of daily life.

The collaboration between Hardouin in Batavia and Lemercier’s Paris workshop demonstrates the 19th-century fascination with the Dutch East Indies and the European appetite for exotic, yet carefully observed, representations of colonial life. These prints combine documentary detail with the romantic sensibilities of the era, making them both artistic and ethnographic records. For collectors of Indonesian art and history, such lithographs are highly desirable due to their early date, subject matter, and rarity.

Condition report:
The prints are in overall very good condition for their age, with strong impressions and attractive hand coloring. Minor foxing and light toning are visible, particularly in the margins, consistent with age. The paper remains stable with no significant tears or repairs. Plate marks are visible, adding to the authenticity and charm of the set. Some small tape remains on the reverse. Ready for framing.

Framing tips:
This set of five works lends itself beautifully to a gallery-style display. Consider matching dark wooden or teak frames with ivory or light cream mounts to complement the warm tones of the lithographs and to echo the Javanese subject matter. A horizontal alignment of the five creates strong visual impact, while a vertical arrangement can highlight each subject individually. Neutral wall colors or soft earth tones will enhance the vibrancy of the prints.

Technique: Lithograph, hand-colored
Maker: F. Hardouin, Batavia (artist); Lemercier, Paris (printer), c.1840