Antique French Hand-Colored Lithograph of Chinese Opera Actor, C. 1840–1865

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A refined and quietly dramatic 19th-century French hand-colored lithograph depicting a Chinese theatrical performer, presented in a later vintage giltwood … Read more A refined and quietly dramatic 19th-century French hand-colored lithograph depicting a Chinese theatrical performer, presented in a later vintage giltwood frame.

Titled “Comédien dans un rôle de femme” (“Actor in a Female Role”), the image portrays a male theatrical performer costumed in a female role, a longstanding tradition within historic Chinese opera. The figure is beautifully rendered in an elaborate ceremonial costume with sweeping sleeves, richly patterned textiles, trailing ribbons, and a distinctive feathered headdress. Delicate hand-applied color gives the composition an understated quality particularly well suited to traditional, collected, and layered interiors.

The lower margin bears the lithographer's imprint, “Imp. Litho. de Mlle Formentin.” The work is attributed to a Paris lithographic workshop and likely originated as part of the 19th-century European tradition of illustrated theatrical, costume, or ethnographic studies.

The restrained palette of celadon green, muted red, ochre, blue, and soft neutrals is complemented beautifully by the warm patina of the gilt frame. At just 9 inches square, it is an especially appealing small-format antique work for a gallery wall, library, study, or collected tabletop arrangement.

Origin: Paris, France
Date: Circa 1840–1865
Medium: Hand-colored lithograph on paper
Framed Dimensions: 9" H × 9" W
Frame: Later mid-century giltwood frame See less