Brodtmann, Northwest American Inhabitants, 1827, Lithograph

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Antique lithograph of Northwest American inhabitants, Brodtmann 1827 This original 1827 lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts inhabitants of the … Read more Antique lithograph of Northwest American inhabitants, Brodtmann 1827 This original 1827 lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts inhabitants of the Northwest Coast of America, rendered with striking attention to detail and characteristic ethnographic precision. Brodtmann (1787–1862), a renowned Swiss lithographer, was celebrated for his natural history and anthropological illustrations, which combined scientific accuracy with an artistic sensibility that made his works widely admired across Europe. The plate, titled “Bewoners van Noordwest-Amerika” (Inhabitants of Northwest America), presents two distinctive portraits. At the top, a man is shown wearing a finely decorated conical hat typical of the Northwest Coast tribes, likely referencing Tlingit or related Indigenous groups. His facial features, adornments, and attire reflect cultural practices that fascinated European audiences in the early 19th century. Below, another figure is depicted with long hair, necklaces, and a nose ornament, emphasizing the diversity of ornamentation and dress among peoples of the region. Such ethnographic lithographs were of great importance in the early 1800s, a period when exploration and trade with distant parts of the world fed European interest in anthropology and comparative physiognomy. Brodtmann’s series provided rare visual insights into cultures that were largely unknown to his European contemporaries. Today, these works serve both as art and as valuable documents of cross-cultural history. The lithograph is printed on thick, high-quality paper, typical of Brodtmann’s folios, which ensured durability and preserved the sharpness of impression. The fine gradation of tones and subtle detailing make this a particularly engaging work, balancing scientific observation with artistic expression. Condition report: The print is in good condition for its age, with a strong impression and well-preserved paper. Some light toning and faint foxing in the margins, along with a minor waterstain at the lower edge, do not affect the central image. Framing tips: This work would be best presented in a dark wooden or black frame with a wide ivory or cream mat. The simplicity of such a setting highlights the delicate tonal variations of the lithography and gives the piece a museum-quality appearance. As part of a collection, it pairs well with other Brodtmann ethnographic plates. Technique: Lithograph Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1827 See less