Chinese Mandarin Official in Light Summer Robes, Antique Costume Print 1749
This finely detailed engraving depicts a Chinese Mandarin in summer attire, illustrating the elegance and hierarchy of Qing dynasty court dress as understood in 18th-century Europe. Published by Thomas Jefferys in London in 1749, the print is part of a wider series exploring global costumes.
The figure is shown in a richly colored robe, with distinctive headwear and decorative elements indicating rank and status. The vibrant reds and blues contrast beautifully with the neutral background, making the composition visually striking.
Such prints were admired for their educational value and decorative appeal, offering a window into distant cultures. Today they are sought after for their artistry and historical resonance.
Condition: Good overall condition with age-related toning and minor spotting. Some edge wear and small marginal losses present. Plate mark visible.
Framing tips: A black or dark walnut frame with a wide ivory mat enhances contrast and sophistication. Ideal for modern or classic interiors.
Special note: This is an original 18th-century 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 on scale with the original.
Technique: Engraving with original hand color Maker: Thomas Jefferys, London, 1749
Keywords: antique print, chinese mandarin, asian costume, oriental dress, ethnographic print, 18th century engraving, thomas jefferys, chinese official, imperial china, decorative print, hand colored engraving, historical costume, collectible print, vintage wall art
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.