Francis Garnier, Southern Yunnan Ethnic Groups, 1873, Paper

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This large and highly detailed lithograph depicts a gathering of diverse ethnic groups from the southern region of Yunnan, in … Read more This large and highly detailed lithograph depicts a gathering of diverse ethnic groups from the southern region of Yunnan, in southwestern China. It shows men, women, and children dressed in distinctive traditional costumes, representing various minority communities known for their unique cultures, such as the Yi, Bai, Hani, and Dai peoples, among others. At the centre is a standing figure in white garments and headscarf, surrounded by richly dressed individuals wearing embroidered tunics, wide belts, silver jewellery, and elaborate headdresses. In the foreground, children sit beside woven baskets and freshly caught fish, highlighting daily life and trade activities typical of this fertile and culturally rich region. This print originates from ‘Voyage d'exploration en Indo-Chine effectué pendant les années 1866, 1867 et 1868 par une Commission Française,’ an exploration account by Francis Garnier published between 1873 and 1875. Garnier served with the French navy in the Far East in 1859 as part of Admiral Charner’s forces fighting in the Mekong delta.

Condition summary: Very good condition with strong, vibrant colours and clean paper. Some light age-toning and minor foxing near the margins, but no tears or repairs noted. Paper remains firm with excellent overall preservation for its age. See less