Hab.t d'Ardra, from the playing cards (for quartets) "Costumes des Peuples Étrangers" 18th century

This 18th-century engraving, "Hab.t d'Ardra," is one of a set of playing cards depicting "Costumes des Peuples Étrangers." The image features two individuals, likely from the Dahomey Kingdom, in West Africa, with the inscription "Hab. dArdra" referencing the former capital city of the kingdom. The individuals are depicted in intricate detail, with the artist highlighting their elaborate clothing and accessories. The card is part of a collection of works that aimed to document the dress and customs of various cultures across the globe, highlighting the growing interest in exploration and cultural exchange in the 18th century.