Description

The print is divided into two narrative scenes illustrating religious life in nineteenth-century India. The upper register depicts a Muslim funeral procession, with pallbearers carrying a shrouded body while relatives and mourners follow behind in traditional dress. The lower register presents a group of Hindu Brahmin men and women, distinguished by their sacred threads, sectarian forehead markings, jewelry, and regional costume. Gathered in conversation and carrying ritual and domestic objects, the figures represent different Hindu sects and social identities. Richly colored and finely detailed, the composition reflects the nineteenth-century European interest in documenting the diverse religious traditions, ceremonial practices, and dress of the Indian subcontinent through ethnographic illustration.

Condition

Very good condition. The sheet is clean and well preserved with strong, vibrant original hand-coloring. Light, even age toning is present, most noticeable in the margins. A few minor spots of foxing and scattered handling marks are visible, along with faint surface soiling consistent with age. 

References

Albert Racinet, Le Costume Historique, Paris: Firmin Didot & Cie, 1876–1888.

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