Arabesque Decorative Arts: 19th-Century Islamic Ornament Prints, 1887

About this sheet

Arabesque Decorative Arts: 19th-Century Islamic Ornament Prints by H. Dolmetsch
This exquisite set of three antique prints originates from *Der Ornamentenschatz*, the magnum opus of Heinrich Dolmetsch, published in Stuttgart in 1887 by Julius Hoffmann. These plates, numbered 23 to 25 in the series, celebrate the richness of Arab decorative art, showcasing a breathtaking array of textile patterns, manuscript illuminations, and intricate wood and metal carvings. The work is one of the finest late 19th-century compendiums of global ornamental design, compiled for artists, architects, and designers during a time of heightened interest in historical styles and cross-cultural aesthetics.

Heinrich Dolmetsch (1846–1908), a German architect and educator, was a passionate advocate for the decorative arts and a leading figure in the preservation and study of historic ornament. As head of the Royal Library of Industrial Art in Stuttgart, Dolmetsch had access to a wealth of source material. His *Ornamentenschatz* comprises 85 chromolithographed plates, illustrating more than 1200 individual motifs from a broad range of cultures and historical periods.

The three Arab-themed plates reflect the visual complexity and mathematical precision of Islamic design. Plate 23 focuses on painted and embroidered patterns used in textiles and interior decoration. Plate 24 shifts to structural and sculptural ornament, highlighting lattice woodwork and intricate arabesques in metal, typical of historic mosques and palaces. Plate 25 returns to the world of color, displaying manuscript illumination and calligraphic borders in rich reds, blues, and golds, drawn from Qur'anic and scientific manuscripts.

Together, these prints offer both decorative beauty and documentary value. They encapsulate the fascination of 19th-century European scholars and artists with the Islamic world, and they remain relevant today for designers, collectors, and institutions interested in global design heritage.

Condition Summary:
These original chromolithographs are in good condition, with strong, vibrant color retention and sharp detail. Some minor age-toning and faint edge spots may be present, consistent with prints over 135 years old. No tears or repairs are evident, and all margins are preserved.

Framing Tips:
To display these prints beautifully, consider using a triple-panel mount or float each sheet individually in minimalist frames to emphasize the detailed geometry and colorwork. Use acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to preserve their condition. A warm natural wood or gold-toned frame can echo the historic richness of the content while fitting into both traditional and modern interiors.