Arab Knife Grinder, 1853, Paper

Details

Description

This fascinating antique print depicts an Arab knife grinder (Rémouleur Arabe) in Cairo, Egypt. Created by François Claudius Compte-Calix, it … Read more This fascinating antique print depicts an Arab knife grinder (Rémouleur Arabe) in Cairo, Egypt. Created by François Claudius Compte-Calix, it was published in Paris in 1853 by Chez Aubert et C-ie as part of the prestigious Le Keepsake de Costumes series, which illustrated traditional costumes and occupations from across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East in refined artistic detail.

François Claudius Compte-Calix (1813-1880) was a renowned French painter and lithographer known for his romantic, historical, and ethnographic subjects. His works combine decorative refinement with documentary accuracy, preserving cultural scenes with elegance and authenticity. This hand-colored lithograph, part of the Musée Cosmopolite collection, depicts the knife grinder working with focus and dedication, operating a large sharpening wheel. He wears a white turban, a sleeveless red vest over a white shirt, blue-grey trousers rolled up to the knee, and bright yellow slippers. His muscular posture and intense gaze capture the dignity of his craft. The lithographic lines create depth and texture, while the careful hand coloring enhances the vividness of his attire and the realism of the stone and wood textures in his environment.

Condition summary: good condition overall, with light age toning typical for mid-19th century prints, and some dirt spots around the border due to handling. See less