About this sheet
Chinese Infantry and Cavalry – Military Costumes, Ferrario, Florence, c. 1815
This rare and visually cohesive set of two antique hand-colored copperplate engravings illustrates contrasting aspects of Chinese and Tartar military forces, focusing on both disciplined infantry and mobile cavalry units. The prints were published in Florence as part of Giulio Ferrario’s influential series Ancient and Modern Costumes of all the Peoples of the World, a landmark 19th-century ethnographic project documenting global dress, arms, and social structures.
Plate No. 23, titled Chinese and Tartar Infantry, centers on a striking “tiger guard” figure. The central infantryman wears a distinctive yellow-and-black striped uniform designed to evoke the appearance of a tiger, symbolizing strength, vigilance, and intimidation. He carries a curved scimitar and a round shield emblazoned with a stylized tiger face. Surrounding figures include archers and additional troops positioned near a watchtower, reinforcing themes of surveillance, territorial control, and military hierarchy.
Plate No. 25, titled Chinese Cavalry, shifts the focus to movement and warfare in action. Mounted soldiers advance across a rugged landscape, armed with bows, arrows, and lances. In the background, artillerymen operate cannons mounted on camels, an arresting detail that highlights logistical ingenuity and the reach of military power across varied terrain. The composition conveys speed, coordination, and martial force, contrasting effectively with the static authority depicted in the infantry scene.
Both engravings were executed in copperplate and finished with original hand coloring, which remains fresh and well balanced, lending depth to uniforms, weapons, and landscapes. Together, the two prints form a strong narrative pair, progressing from disciplined control to active military engagement, making them especially suitable for display as a matched set.
As issued, both sheets bear the original embossed blind stamp associated with Ferrario’s Florentine edition. This dry stamp was applied at the time of publication and serves as an important marker of authenticity; it may lightly overlap the image area.
The set is offered unframed.
Condition Report:
Good antique condition overall. Light age-related toning to the paper with minor scattered spotting consistent with early- to mid-19th-century prints. Original hand coloring remains well preserved. Embossed blind stamps visible, as issued. No major tears, losses, or restorations observed.
Framing Tips:
These works are best framed as a pair with identical mats and frames to emphasize their narrative continuity. Warm ivory or soft cream mats complement the original paper tone. Frames in natural walnut, dark wood, or restrained gilt work well for both classical and contemporary interiors. Hanging them side by side with equal spacing highlights the contrast between infantry authority and cavalry action.
Keywords:
Chinese military prints, Tartar soldiers, tiger guard, Chinese infantry, Chinese cavalry, antique hand colored engraving, Giulio Ferrario, Le Costume Ancien et Moderne, 19th century ethnography, Asian military history, Chinese warriors, cavalry archers, antique costume prints, Florence engraving, Bartele Gallery
Technique:
Hand-colored copperplate engravings
Maker:
Giulio Ferrario, Florence, Italy, circa 1815's
