East Indies Figures & Tribal Dress, 1749, Engraving, Set of 3

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Title: Antique Costume Prints, East Indies Figures & Tribal Dress, 1749 : A striking and visually dynamic set of three … Read more Title: Antique Costume Prints, East Indies Figures & Tribal Dress, 1749 : A striking and visually dynamic set of three hand-colored antique costume engravings depicting figures from the East Indies and broader Indian Ocean world, published in 1749. These finely executed plates present idealized representations of indigenous and regional dress, capturing the European fascination with distant cultures during the height of global exploration and trade. Each figure is shown in full-length pose against a minimal background, allowing the intricate costume details to take center stage. The engravings depict an East Indian man with bow and arrows, another warrior figure armed with spear and shield, and a woman of the East Indies holding botanical elements—together forming a compelling narrative of daily life, status, and identity in the region. The vibrant hand-coloring emphasizes patterned textiles, body adornment, and weaponry, reflecting both ceremonial and practical aspects of attire. These images were originally produced for European audiences eager to visualize the peoples encountered through expanding trade networks, particularly those connected to the Dutch and other East India Companies. This set carries strong decorative appeal, combining ethnographic curiosity with elegant composition. The balance between male and female figures, as well as the variation in posture and attributes, makes it especially suitable for a curated wall display. Whether arranged in a row or grouped together, the prints create a cohesive yet lively presentation. Condition: Good overall condition with age-related toning. Light foxing and minor spotting visible, primarily in the margins. Some edge wear consistent with age and handling. Plate marks visible. Framing tips: These prints work beautifully in a unified presentation. A thin black or dark bronze frame with generous off-white or ivory mats enhances contrast and elevates the figures. For a warmer, more atmospheric look, consider dark walnut frames. Display as a horizontal trio or a vertical arrangement for a strong, gallery-style impact. Special note: This is an original antique document, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Keywords: East Indies, East India, Indian Ocean, Levantine Indies, Indois Levantin, India, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Java, Sumatra, Malabar Coast, Coromandel Coast, Mughal India, Deccan, tribal dress, indigenous costume, warrior attire, ethnographic costume, oriental costume, traditional clothing, native tribes, Indian tribes, East Indian warrior, spear and shield, bow and arrow, ceremonial dress, historical costume, 18th century engraving, hand colored engraving, exploration era, Dutch East India Company, VOC, colonial encounters, cultural dress See less