1888 Chromolithograph Costume Algeria Tunisia Evil Eye Child Moor LCH2

This is a rare original 1888 color chromolithograph which depicts a selection of historical clothing styles worn by the inhabitants of Tunisia and Algeria. It was common for the Moorish women to cover themselves whilst out in public. However, whilst at home, they wore comfortable, loose clothing that made domestic tasks much easier to perform. One interesting superstition that many north Africans swore by was the Evil Eye, and talismans were worn to ward it off, such as the example around the neck of one woman here. A single look from an enemy with the evil eye was thought to bring disaster to the intended victim.

A unique feature of this illustration, which may be difficult to see in the digital image, is the use of gold and silver ink, which not only shimmers when it catches the light but also accentuates some of the finer details that might otherwise be missed.

Key Elements in Each Panel

Top (Left to right) - Moorish Tunisian wearing indoor clothing (they would be modestly veiled otherwise) - Arabic chieftain - Two beggar children - Algerian porter - Spahi, light cavalryman recruited by the French army from the native Algerian population.

Bottom (Left to right) - Moorish Algerian wearing indoor clothing - Algerian woman wearing a talisman to ward off the evil eye - Woman with a flat headdress to ease the carrying of parcels - Tunisian peasant.

CONDITION

This 123+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine. Light aging throughout. Light wrinkling. No natural defects. No surface rub. No tears. No water damage.

• Product Type: Original Chromolithograph; Color
• Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine
• Dimensions: Approximately 10 x 13.5 inches; 25 x 34 cm
• Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
• Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

Period Paper has obtained an extraordinary, ultra-rare collection of original color and chromolithographs, which capture a myriad of ancient cultures and costumes from around the world. Virtually unseen individually, and from perhaps the most coveted portfolio of costumes from the 19th century, these historically important elephant folio-sized chromolithographs depict scenes and images venturing from ancient Egypt to classical Rome and Greece. Each illustration was adapted from actual artifacts and archaeological sites to define accurate representations of life during each time period; from the dainty Orient to the tribes of Oceania, there are beautiful illustrations for all, each more unique than the next.

Please note that the full original supporting documents for this original piece, shown in the additional pictures attached to the listing, are included and will be shipped with this original.

The originals offered are from the first edition of RacinetÕs masterwork on costumes of the world. Many have been heightened in gold and silver. The full color chromolithographs are some of the most spectacular we have procured. The duotone chromolithographs are stunning and impeccably preserved. Each piece from the collection is in museum-quality condition.

Keywords specific to this image: veil, attire, garment, amulet, sock, man, boy

LCH2C88