Women of Shoa (Ethiopia), Antique Ethnographic Costume Print, 1868

Women of Shoa (Ethiopia), Antique Ethnographic Costume Print, 1868

This attractive hand-colored ethnographic print titled Frauen von Schoa (“Women of Shoa”) depicts two women from the historical Kingdom of Shoa in Ethiopia, presented within a lush tropical landscape framed by banana trees and village architecture. Dated 1868 in the plate, the image reflects the European fascination with East Africa and Abyssinian culture during the mid-19th century.

The women are shown wearing flowing traditional garments adorned with striped decorative borders and jewelry, while one figure gestures expressively in conversation. The composition combines ethnographic observation with the romanticized visual language typical of 19th-century travel and costume illustration. The warm atmospheric coloring and carefully rendered costume details lend the work both documentary interest and decorative appeal.

During the 19th century, Shoa (Shewa) was one of the most important kingdoms within Ethiopia and became increasingly known in Europe through diplomatic missions, exploration accounts, and illustrated travel publications. Prints such as this were often produced for ethnographic atlases or illustrated geographical works intended to introduce European audiences to distant cultures and peoples.

The image belongs to the broader tradition of 19th-century costume and ethnographic prints, which today remain highly collectible for their historical insight, decorative color palette, and representation of global cultures during the age of exploration and colonial expansion.

Its elegant vertical composition and subdued hand coloring make it particularly suitable for framing in both classic and modern interiors. The tropical background and graceful costume forms also give the print strong decorative presence despite its relatively restrained palette.

Special note: This is an original antique print, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale with the original.

Condition report: Overall in good antique condition with age-related toning and minor handling wear. Some light foxing and marginal discoloration visible consistent with 19th-century prints. The colors remain soft and attractive. Please study the image carefully.

Framing tips: This print displays beautifully in dark walnut, lightly gilt, or bamboo-style frames paired with warm ivory mats. The tropical scenery and elegant costume details work especially well in eclectic interiors, travel-inspired collections, or gallery wall arrangements focused on ethnographic and costume subjects.

Technique: Hand-colored lithograph

Maker: German School, dated 1868