European School Artist, Pacific Islanders & Polynesian Costume, 1852, Print, Set of 10

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Antique Pacific Islanders & Polynesian Costume Prints, Set of 10 A striking and visually engaging set of ten original 19th-century … Read more Antique Pacific Islanders & Polynesian Costume Prints, Set of 10 A striking and visually engaging set of ten original 19th-century hand-colored costume and ethnographic prints depicting indigenous peoples and cultural figures from across the Pacific Islands and Polynesia. The series includes portraits and full-length depictions of inhabitants from Nukahiva (Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands), Otahiti (Tahiti), the Pitcairn Islands, Owhyhee (Hawaii), Tonga Tabu (Tongatapu), New Zealand (Maori), Watu-Lele, Madisson Island, and the Romanzow Archipelago, among others. These prints were produced during the great age of Pacific exploration and European fascination with the South Seas following the voyages of Captain James Cook and later expeditions throughout Oceania. The images combine ethnographic observation with the romanticized artistic style typical of 19th-century European travel publications. Tattooing, ceremonial dress, weapons, jewelry, and traditional hairstyles are rendered in delicate hand color, creating highly decorative compositions while also documenting cultural traditions that were rapidly changing under colonial influence. The set includes a diverse range of subjects: warriors, dancers, chiefs, noblewomen, and island inhabitants from Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia, and New Zealand. Particularly striking are the heavily tattooed Marquesan warrior from Nukahiva, the regal Hawaiian queen and warrior portraits from Owhyhee (Hawaii), and the Maori chief from New Zealand holding a spear. Together, the prints form a remarkable visual survey of Pacific cultures as imagined and recorded by European artists and publishers during the 19th century. The soft original hand coloring, large surrounding margins, and elegant vertical format make this group especially suitable for framing either individually or as a decorative gallery wall installation. Displayed together, the prints create a refined cabinet-of-curiosities atmosphere ideal for coastal interiors, libraries, tropical-inspired spaces, travel collections, or sophisticated eclectic interiors. Individual captions include: * Inboorling van Nukahiwa * Danseres op Otahiti * Inboorling van het eiland Madisson * Inboorling van Romanzows Archipel * Jong meisje van het Pitcairns-Eiland * Koningin van Owhijhee (OwahI / Hawaii) * Krijgsman van Owhijhee * Krijgsman op Tonga Tabu * Opperhoofd op Nieuw Zeeland * Inboorling van het eiland Watu-Lele The prints are original antique lithographs with contemporary hand coloring, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The pieces are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be on scale with the original. Condition report: Overall in good antique condition with age-related toning, occasional light foxing, and minor edge wear consistent with age. Some sheets show small marginal creases or light handling marks. Colors remain fresh and attractive. Large margins preserved. Framing tips: These prints display exceptionally well in dark walnut, ebonized, or lightly gilt frames paired with wide ivory or oatmeal mats. The warm paper tone and vivid hand coloring make the set particularly suitable for tropical interiors, colonial-style libraries, travel-inspired spaces, boutique hotels, or curated gallery walls. Hanging the full group in two horizontal rows of five creates an especially strong decorative presentation. Technique: Hand-colored lithographs Maker: European School, 19th century See less