After Leloir, Spanish Dancers and Regional Costumes, Gitano and Valencian Figures, 1845, Lithograph

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Spanish Dancers and Regional Costumes – Gitano and Valencian Figures, c.1845 This vibrant hand-colored lithograph, titled “Europe – Espagne,” originates … Read more Spanish Dancers and Regional Costumes – Gitano and Valencian Figures, c.1845 This vibrant hand-colored lithograph, titled “Europe – Espagne,” originates from the mid-19th-century French series Le Monde en Estampes: Types et Costumes des Principaux Peuples de l’Univers, published in Paris around 1845–1850. Lithographed by J. Bocquin after drawings by Leloir and Fossey, printed by Lemercier, and published by Amédée Bedelet, this series offered a colorful visual journey through the world’s traditional costumes, combining ethnographic interest with the refined artistry of Romantic lithography. This particular plate celebrates the lively spirit and rich diversity of Spain’s regional and cultural traditions. The composition depicts a dynamic scene of Spanish life in a village courtyard: a Gitano couple dances passionately to the rhythm of a guitarist seated nearby, while another woman plays the tambourine with graceful movement. Their animated postures and colorful costumes—bold reds, yellows, and blues—evoke the expressive character of Andalusian dance and the musical soul of southern Spain. To the left, a Marchand d’eau (water vendor) leads his horse-drawn cart, while a femme de Valence stands wrapped in a dark shawl and pink skirt, her attire distinguished by the contrast between regional simplicity and elegance. Behind them, a man on horseback and distant figures complete the background, adding depth and narrative vitality. The Homme de Burgos, at right, represents the northern Castilian type, solid and dignified, offering a cultural counterpoint to the flamboyant southern dancers. The lithograph harmoniously combines ethnographic observation with theatrical composition, typical of the Romantic period’s fascination with exoticism and national character. Lemercier’s fine lithography captures the nuanced textures of fabric, light, and shadow, while the delicate hand-coloring enhances each costume’s individuality. Such plates from Le Monde en Estampes are prized today for their artistic merit and documentary value, illustrating how mid-19th-century Europe viewed its cultural identities through costume and custom. This print, in particular, embodies the vitality, rhythm, and color long associated with Spanish culture. Condition report: Very good condition with slight age toning and light foxing, mainly in the margins. The image area is clean, colors bright and well preserved, with strong impression and wide borders. Framing tips: Best presented with a cream or pale ivory mat and a simple dark wood or gilt frame to highlight the warm, festive palette of the Spanish costumes. For a striking contrast, a deep red or black inner mat can complement the rich hues of the dancers’ attire. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: J. Bocquin after Leloir & Fossey, printed by Lemercier, Paris, circa 1845 See less