Costume Print of Naples Woman with Grapes, Published London 1824
This finely hand-colored print titled “Naples: A Female Costume” presents a richly detailed portrayal of a Neapolitan woman dressed in traditional attire, offering a vibrant window into southern Italian life in the early 19th century. The scene is bustling with cultural context, carefully composed to reflect not just clothing but local character and religious sentiment.
The central figure is a woman standing confidently in the foreground, dressed in the elaborate regional costume of Naples. Her brightly adorned outfit consists of a red bodice over a white blouse with dramatically puffed sleeves and yellow ribboned shoulder accents. A vivid blue skirt with dark polka-dot detailing is further accentuated by a yellow apron bordered in red. Her head is partially covered by a white veil, pinned with red ribbon, adding to the complexity of the costume. She holds a bunch of grapes delicately in her right hand, suggestive of the region’s agricultural wealth and culinary traditions.
In the background, a detailed scene unfolds. A woman sits on the floor preparing food, and a small boy kneels before a red-painted wall shrine with a cross, highlighting the spiritual atmosphere that pervades everyday life. A niche in the wall features a devotional image of the Virgin Mary, and above the central archway is inscribed “Locanda,” indicating a local inn or tavern. The open doorway reveals a glimpse of the Mediterranean countryside with cypress trees and hills.
This print was published in London on October 1, 1824, by William Sams, a known publisher of costume and travel prints. It is part of a broader collection likely focused on European national dress and was produced during a time when British audiences were fascinated with foreign customs and attire.
Condition Report: Good condition overall with light toning and faint spotting to margins. Image well-preserved with vibrant hand-coloring. Minor handling wear consistent with age.
Framing Tips: Frame in gold or walnut wood with a cream or soft ivory mat to complement the warm tones. Avoid overly bright colors to preserve the antique ambiance and highlight the costume's vivid reds, yellows, and blues.
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