Khoisan Figures of Southern Africa – Antique Hand-Colored Ethnographic Engraving (Houzouanas), c.1800
A finely hand-colored early 19th-century ethnographic engraving titled “Houzouanas,” depicting two Indigenous Khoisan people of Southern Africa with a child carried on the back of the standing woman. Both figures wear traditional garments made from animal skins and decorated with beadwork and ornaments. The man carries a spear and wears a quiver on his back. The dramatic landscape setting suggests a rocky, mountainous environment.
The printed title reflects an archaic European term historically applied to Khoisan communities. Today, this imagery provides important insight into early European representations of southern Africa’s original inhabitants during the period of exploration and cultural encounter.
Signed in the plate: “S. Kuyper delin.” (artist) and “J. Portman sculp.” (engraver). Published by J. Allart in The Netherlands around 1800 as part of an extensive global ethnographic series. Collectors value this print for its rich hand-coloring, detailed clothing and adornment, and its significance within the heritage of Southern African cultural documentation.
Condition: Very good condition consistent with age. Light toning and a few small marginal spots. Minor handling marks and gentle creasing near edges. Image clean and well-printed with excellent color preservation.
Framing Tips: Natural or dark wood frames bring out the earthy palette and historical context. A warm ivory or biscuit-toned mat complements the hand-coloring. UV-protective glazing recommended.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving Maker: J. Allart (publisher), after S. Kuyper, engraved by J. Portman Date: c.1800
Keywords: Khoisan art, Southern African ethnography, anthropology illustration, colonial-era documentation, museum quality print, Africa cultural history, Enlightenment exploration art, J. Allart publisher, S. Kuyper artist, J. Portman engraver, antique hand-colored engraving
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