Hab.ts de Mauritanie, from the playing cards (for quartets) "Costumes des Peuples Étrangers" 18th century

This 18th century, anonymous engraving is from a deck of playing cards depicting "Costumes des Peuples Étrangers." This particular card, "Hab.ts de Mauritanie," shows two men wearing traditional clothing. The card exemplifies the widespread interest in non-European cultures during this period, and the card likely reflects the European understanding of Mauritanian attire. The image features two figures depicted in a conversational pose against a green backdrop, with the card’s suit, hearts, displayed in the bottom right corner. The card’s design is a testament to the artistic interest in documenting and representing diverse cultures, though it should be noted that the depictions were often influenced by European artistic conventions and perspectives.