About this sheet
Traditional Costumes from Frascati, Perugia, Albano and Monastic Orders – 1823
This hand-colored lithograph, labeled “No. 4,” continues the beautifully detailed series of European costume studies published in London on December 1, 1823, by Baldwin, Cradock & Joy. It highlights both regional female headwear from central Italy and distinctive male monastic attire, offering a unique contrast between lay and religious dress in early 19th-century Italian society.
In the top row, three elegantly dressed women represent the towns of Frascati, Perugia, and Albano. The woman from Frascati is adorned with a refined headdress and elaborate gold hairpins, with blue ribbon accents on her gown. Her poised profile emphasizes grace and fashion typical of the area.
The central figure from Perugia wears an ornate white headdress embroidered with lace and pearls, which drapes along her shoulders. Red ribbon and golden earrings complete the look, reflecting Perugia’s artistic and aristocratic traditions. The woman from Albano is shown from behind, allowing the viewer to admire her intricate braided bun held with a golden horizontal pin. Her collar is richly trimmed with pink and green embroidery—suggestive of festive or ceremonial attire.
The lower section shifts in tone, depicting three men associated with monastic or religious life. On the left is a monk from Rome in a simple brown hooded habit and skullcap, his expression solemn. At center, a barefoot pilgrim from Reggio Emilia is depicted from behind, carrying a large straw hat and a blue canteen with a red cross—symbols of penance and devotion. To the right, another monk in a brown cowl gazes outward with a thoughtful expression, his long white beard adding gravitas.
This composition is notable for juxtaposing regional elegance with the austere simplicity of religious devotion. It was likely intended to capture the spectrum of Italian identity—from fashion-conscious townswomen to humble men of the cloth.
Condition Report:
Good condition with light toning and a faint central stamp. Edges are clean with minimal foxing. Color remains rich, and figures are sharply defined on sturdy paper with wide margins.
Framing Tips:
Choose a deep walnut or black frame with a neutral ivory mat to highlight both the costume colors and the monastic earth tones. Ideal for display alongside other plates from the same series.
