Costume Print: Roman Butcher at Work, 1820s Hand-Colored Engraving

Costume Print: Roman Butcher at Work, 1820s Hand-Colored Engraving

This evocative hand-colored engraving, titled "Roman Butcher," offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in 19th-century Rome. Published in the 1820s by Baldwin, Cradock & Joy, the print forms part of an ethnographic series that documented regional costumes, occupations, and street scenes throughout Italy.

The central figure is a Roman butcher in traditional attire, a simple white tunic and a vivid red cap, capturing the working man’s rugged, no-nonsense demeanor. He stands at his wooden table, cleaver in hand, with freshly cut meat on display. A loyal dog sits at his feet, tongue out, eagerly eyeing the bones strewn beneath the table, an endearing touch that adds life and movement to the scene.

Behind the butcher, the arched entrance to his workshop is hung with various cuts of cured meat and sausages, neatly organized on iron racks. Inside the dim interior, a second figure can be seen playing a guitar, filling the air with music that underscores the cultural vibrancy of Roman street life. The tiled roof, adorned with greenery, frames the bustling scene and adds a rustic charm that reflects the warmth and liveliness of the Roman markets.

The hand coloring is skillfully applied, enhancing the textures and subtle shading of the engraving’s fine lines. Such prints were not just decorative art; they were educational, offering viewers a window into the customs and trades of distant lands. The juxtaposition of work and leisure in this print captures the soul of everyday life in Rome, practical, communal, and filled with quiet joys.

Condition:

This antique print is in very good condition, with minor age-related toning and slight foxing that enhance its historical character. The colors remain rich and vibrant, preserving the authenticity of this early 19th-century scene.

Framing tips:

For a classic presentation, pair this print with a soft cream or warm beige mat and a natural wood or antique gold frame. This combination will highlight the warm colors and detailed lines of the print, making it a delightful focal point in any traditional or eclectic interior.