About this sheet
Islamic Prayer Lithographs, Muslims Worship Postures, Paris 1888 Set
A rare and visually compelling pair of 19th-century antique lithographs depicting Islamic devotional practices, taken from a celebrated costume study published in Paris by Firmin-Didot & Cie circa 1876–1888. These refined monochrome plates form part of one of the most ambitious and comprehensive visual surveys of global dress and cultural customs of the 19th century.
The compositions present detailed studies of Muslim men engaged in various stages of prayer (Salat), including standing, bowing, kneeling, and prostration. The figures are arranged in structured registers, offering both a visual narrative and an educational overview of ritual movement. Additional gestures such as the Takbir (raising of the hands) and Taslim (closing greeting) are also depicted, alongside moments of stillness and contemplation. Each figure is rendered with clarity and restraint, emphasizing both posture and attire.
The plates reflect a strong ethnographic interest in documenting traditional clothing and cultural identity. The figures wear a variety of regional garments, including turbans, flowing robes, belted tunics, and distinctive headwear, capturing the diversity of Islamic dress across different regions. The clean lithographic linework, executed by the lithographer Durin and printed by the prestigious Parisian firm Firmin-Didot, enhances the clarity and elegance of the compositions.
Originally produced as part of a major multi-volume publication intended for artists, designers, and historians, these works remain highly sought after today for their combination of decorative appeal and cultural depth. The balanced compositions and refined aesthetic make them particularly suitable for interior designers seeking meaningful, globally inspired wall art, whether displayed as a pair or within a curated gallery wall.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning and minor handling wear. Light foxing may be present. Strong impressions with clear detail. Margins intact. No major damage. Plate marks not applicable due to lithographic process.
Framing tips: These prints display beautifully with wide ivory or warm off-white mats and thin dark walnut or black frames. A symmetrical presentation as a pair enhances their narrative quality. Ideal for studies, libraries, or refined interiors with a global or historical theme.
Note: The interior mockups are for visual inspiration only and do not represent the exact scale. We do not sell reproductions, only original works of art over 100 years old.
