Royal Burmese Official & His Wife in State Attire, Antique Costume Print, c1800

Royal Burmese Official and His Wife in State Attire, Antique Costume Print, circa 1800

This fine early 19th-century Dutch engraving titled “Een Woendsji, of de Eerste Koninklijk-Birmansche Staatsdienaar, en zijne Vrouw, Beiden in Hunne Staatkleedij” (“A Woendsji, or First Royal Burmese State Official, and His Wife, Both in Their State Attire”) presents a high-ranking Burmese dignitary and his wife in full ceremonial dress. Produced around 1800, this image belongs to a series of costume engravings that accompanied Dutch-language publications documenting the Burmese court, likely based on European diplomatic encounters such as the 1795 British mission led by Michael Symes.

The male figure, referred to here as a “Woendsji” (from the Burmese “Wun-gyi,” meaning Minister or Chief Counselor), is richly robed in an elaborately patterned formal gown, decorated with border designs and a medallion. He wears an upright ceremonial crown and holds a fan or court insignia, symbolizing authority and rank. His posture is regal and measured, reflecting his high office in the royal administration.

The woman, presumably his wife, is depicted in equally ornate attire. She wears a long, flowing garment with richly patterned drapery and a sash crossing her chest. Her blouse features detailed embroidery or brocade-like decoration, and her head is adorned with an elaborate hair ornament or diadem. In her hand, she holds a fan, a symbol of grace and high status in both Burmese and broader Southeast Asian culture.

This print exemplifies Enlightenment-era Europe’s fascination with the courtly rituals and structured hierarchies of Asian monarchies. It was intended to educate European readers about the ranks, appearances, and ceremonial dress of foreign courts, while also satisfying a taste for the exotic and ornamental.

Condition: Very good condition with a clear plate impression. Original vertical and horizontal folds, as issued. Light toning along folds and outer margins, minor creasing but no tears. Paper is clean and strong.

Framing tips: A dark wooden frame, such as walnut or ebony, with a soft white or parchment-colored mat, would enhance the stately elegance of the figures and highlight the formal subject matter.

Technique: Copper engraving

Maker: Anonymous Dutch engraver, after an eyewitness or travel account, Netherlands, circa 1800