Racinet, Afrique: Kabyle Jewelry from Algeria, 1888, Lithograph

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Kabyle Jewelry from Algeria, Racinet Afrique Chromolithograph, 1888 A striking chromolithograph from 1888, taken from Auguste Racinet’s celebrated *Le Costume … Read more Kabyle Jewelry from Algeria, Racinet Afrique Chromolithograph, 1888 A striking chromolithograph from 1888, taken from Auguste Racinet’s celebrated *Le Costume Historique*, titled “Afrique.” This refined plate presents a vibrant and highly decorative survey of traditional Kabyle jewelry from the Greater Kabylia region of Algeria, particularly associated with the town of Beni Yenni, long renowned for its skilled silversmiths. The composition displays an array of ceremonial ornaments—necklaces, earrings, brooches, and garment fasteners—arranged in a balanced, almost architectural layout. These pieces are primarily crafted in silver, often with intricate filigree work, and richly embellished with cloisonné enamel in the characteristic Kabyle palette of deep blue, green, and yellow, symbolizing sky, fertility, and sun. Many elements are further adorned with polished red coral, traditionally sourced from the Mediterranean coast near Béjaïa, valued not only for its vivid color but also for its associations with vitality and protection. Recognizable forms include large circular brooches (tabzimt), heavy pendant earrings (letrar), elaborate multi-strand necklaces (azrar), and fibulae (abzim) used to fasten traditional garments. Racinet renders each object with remarkable precision, transforming ethnographic detail into a harmonious decorative composition. Printed in Paris by Firmin Didot, this chromolithograph exemplifies the technical excellence of late 19th-century color printing, with crisp detail and rich, enduring color. Condition: Good condition overall. Light age toning and minor spotting in the margins. Edges show slight wear consistent with age. Image remains clean and vibrant. Framing tips: Ideal with a wide ivory mat and dark wood or subtle gilt frame to enhance the jewel-like colors and intricate detail. Special note: This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Technique: Chromolithograph Maker: Auguste Racinet, Paris, circa 1888 See less