Traditional Attire of a Man from Mardin in Turkey in 19th Century Lithograph

About this sheet

This lithograph, titled "Turc de Mardin," features a man from Mardin, a city in what is now Turkey. The image is part of the Asia volume from "Moeurs, Usages et Costumes de tous les Peuples de Monde" (Customs, Manners and Dress of All the Peoples of the World) by Auguste Wahlen, published in 1844.

The lithograph is enhanced with Arabic gum on vellum paper, giving it a vivid and glossy finish. This piece was created by an anonymous engraver under the direction of Auguste Wahlen, with contributions from noted artists such as Evrard Duverger, L. Markaert, and R. King.

Notable Features of the Attire:

- Headgear: The man wears a distinctive tall, yellow hat that is possibly a traditional headpiece from the region, reflecting local styles and materials.
- Outer Robe: He is draped in a dark green robe, which is typical of the region’s traditional dress, designed to offer protection from the sun while remaining breathable.
- Scarf and Accessories: The brightly colored scarf around his neck and the intricate patterns on his garments highlight the rich textile traditions of Mardin.

Cultural Significance:

This lithograph not only captures the traditional dress but also reflects the cultural identity of Mardin at the time, showcasing the unique blend of influences that the region has experienced due to its historical position between several civilizations.

Keywords for Searching:
Keywords that might be used to find prints like this include "Mardin traditional dress," "Turkish historical lithographs," "1844 Wahlen lithograph," "hand-colored lithographs of Asia," and "19th-century Ottoman attire." These terms help researchers and enthusiasts locate art that depicts the diverse cultural heritage of the Ottoman Empire's regions.