Antique Afghan Soldier Print, Hand-Colored Military Costume Lithograph, 1852

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Antique Afghan Soldier Print, Hand-Colored Military Costume Lithograph, 1852

A striking mid-19th century Dutch costume lithograph depicting an Afghan soldier (“Afghaansch Soldaat”) in traditional military attire, published circa 1852. The figure is shown standing proudly with a long musket resting across his shoulder, dressed in flowing white garments accented with vivid red sashes and armed with a curved sword and powder flask. His turban, beard, and weaponry reflect the fascination in Europe during the 19th century with the peoples and military cultures of Central Asia and the wider East.

The composition is both elegant and ethnographically detailed, combining documentary interest with the refined aesthetics of early chromatic lithography. The subtle hand-coloring emphasizes the vivid red textiles against the otherwise restrained palette, while the sparse architectural background evokes an exoticized Afghan landscape. Prints such as this were often produced for illustrated geographical or ethnographic publications intended to educate European audiences about distant cultures and military traditions during a period of increased colonial and diplomatic interest in the region.

The lithograph possesses a refined balance between portraiture and costume study. The soldier’s calm but alert pose, together with the carefully rendered textures of fabric and weaponry, make this an attractive decorative work as well as a historical document. The large margins and clean composition lend the print a highly sophisticated appearance suitable for framing in both traditional and contemporary interiors.

This print would display beautifully in a study, library, or global-inspired interior, particularly when paired with dark walnut, ebonized, or Ottoman-style frames with an ivory mat. It also works exceptionally well grouped with other 19th-century ethnographic costume studies or Orientalist prints.

Condition report: Overall in good condition with age-related toning and light foxing consistent with age. Minor discoloration and handling wear to the margins. Colors remain fresh and attractive. Large original margins preserved.

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.

Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Dutch, circa 1852