Antique Print-ISLAMIC-CULTURE-DANCE-PUBLIC-PERFORMANCE-Labrousse-Grasset-1797

(Public Muslim Dancer) This illustration features a Muslim public dancer, engaged in a dynamic pose that captures the essence of her performance. Adorned in a vibrant, multilayered outfit that combines various textures and colors, her ensemble reflects the rich cultural traditions of Islamic performance attire. The clothing is functional for movement yet decorative enough to suggest the celebratory and public nature of her role. Her face is partially veiled, adding an element of allure and mystery customary in some traditional dances. Accessories, such as the belt with hanging ornaments and the draped shawl, enhance the visual impact of her dance. The setting includes architectural details that hint at a communal space, perhaps a market or a festival, where such performances were likely to be a central entertainment feature.

Made by Labrousse after Jacques Grasset de Saint Sauveur.

Medium: Handcoloured line and aquatint etching on hand laid paper.

Sheet size: 20.5 x 26.1 cm (8.07 x 10.28 inch). Image size: 14.7 x 20.5 cm. (5.79 x 8.07 inch).

Condition: good, given age. Paper edges a bit irregular and brownish from binding. . General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.

ISLAMIC-CULTURE-DANCE-PUBLIC-PERFORMANCE-TRADITION | PCO-C27-43

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Costumes de Differents Pays …’ by Jacques Grasset de Saint Sauveur, c.1797.

Biography engraver: Labrousse was a late 18th C. French engraver.

Biography artist: Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur (1757-1810) was born as son of a diplomat in Montreal, Canada. He was exposed to varying cultures at an early age.