Framed Chromolithograph Cotton Bale Advertising Label - Early 20th Century

This vibrant framed chromolithograph is an original Manchester cotton bale label produced in the late 19th or early 20th century for F. Steiner Co. of Manchester, one of the most important turkey-red dyeing companies outside Glasgow. Richly coloured and intricately detailed, labels such as this were created as decorative advertising pieces attached to exported bales of cotton cloth destined for the Indian market during the British Raj.

The image depicts a lively courtly scene inspired by Indian miniature painting traditions, surrounded by ornate architectural and garden elements rendered in vivid tones of coral, green, blue and gold. Designed to appeal directly to Indian buyers, these labels combined British industrial textile production with Indian visual culture, resulting in highly distinctive examples of colonial-era commercial art.

Printed using chromolithography on paper, these bale labels have become increasingly collectible and are now recognised as important historical documents reflecting the trade relationship between Britain and India during the height of the cotton export industry. Comparable examples can be found in museum collections including the British Museum.

Presented in a later gilt frame, this piece works beautifully as decorative wall art while also offering fascinating historical and cultural significance.

• Origin: Manchester, England, Produced For The Indian Market
• Date: Late 19th To Early 20th Century
• Material: Chromolithograph On Paper
• Features: Original Cotton Bale Advertising Label, Courtly Indian Scene, Framed Presentation, British Raj Textile Ephemera
• Maker: F. Steiner Co., Manchester
• Condition: Age-related wear and minor fading consistent with original printed advertising ephemera
• Dimensions: W46 x D2 x H56 cm