Figures & Portraits · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Age-related toning and occasional light spotting to the paper, with minor edge wear consistent with age. Overall in good condition with attractive original hand-coloring and generous margins.
Spanish American Girl from Concepción, Chile Antique Lithograph c.1852
This charming nineteenth-century hand-colored lithograph depicts a “Spaansch Amerikaansch Meisje van het Eiland Conception (Chili),” translated from Dutch as a Spanish American girl from the island or region of Concepción in Chile. The figure is portrayed in elegant regional attire, holding a folding fan while dressed in richly patterned garments that reflect the fascination with Latin American costume and culture in nineteenth-century Europe.
The composition combines ethnographic interest with the romantic artistic style popular during the period. The young woman wears a delicately decorated skirt, striped stockings, shawl, and finely draped bodice, all highlighted with subtle hand-coloring. The soft pink tones of the shawl and the decorative floral detailing along the hem create a refined and decorative appearance, while the poised stance and fan lend the figure grace and sophistication.
Throughout the nineteenth century, publishers across Europe produced illustrated costume series portraying peoples and regional dress from around the world. South America held particular fascination for European audiences, especially after the independence movements of the early nineteenth century opened greater cultural awareness of the region. Prints such as this offered viewers a romanticized glimpse into the traditions and fashions of distant lands while also serving as elegant decorative artworks for domestic interiors.
The lithographic technique allowed artists to produce delicate lines and expressive textile details, later enhanced by hand-applied watercolor. The large surrounding margins and uncluttered composition focus full attention on the costume itself, giving the print a refined and timeless quality suitable for both traditional and modern interiors.
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.
Condition: Age-related toning and occasional light spotting to the paper, with minor edge wear consistent with age. Overall in good condition with attractive original hand-coloring and generous margins.
Framing tips: Particularly elegant in a walnut, black, or lightly gilt frame with a warm ivory mat. Beautiful displayed individually or grouped with other nineteenth-century costume and ethnographic prints.
Technique: Original hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Dutch, circa 1852
