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Pre-Rhodes Hospitaller Nun: 1791 Colored Engraving of Historic Ceremonial Dress
€290
$325 · £245
Original print, not a reproduction.
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- Date
- 1791
- Sheet size
- 10 × 8.1 in (25.5 × 20.5 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Minor foxing along the edges, consistent with age. The hand-coloring is vivid and well-preserved, with minimal handling marks. Overall, an excellent example of late 18th-century engravings.
- Wardrobe
- Court & couture
- Era
- 1790 to 1840, Empire and Romantic
- Stock no.
- f_43122162
Pre-Rhodes Hospitaller Nun: 1791 Hand-Colored Engraving of Historic Ceremonial Dress
This vibrant hand-colored engraving, titled "Ehemalige Kleidung der Johanniterinnen vor Eroberung der Insel Rhodos" (Former Clothing of the Hospitaller Nuns Before the Conquest of Rhodes), depicts a nun of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem in ceremonial attire from the period before the Order's relocation to Rhodes. The figure is resplendently dressed in a scarlet gown, overlaid with a black bodice adorned with the iconic white Maltese cross. A luxurious fur-lined crimson cape drapes over her shoulders, emphasizing her rank and status within the Order. Her serene expression and welcoming gesture embody the Order's commitment to faith and service.
This engraving belongs to Christian Friedrich Schwan’s highly regarded series, "Abbildungen derjenigen Ritter-Orden," or "Illustrations of all spiritual and secular orders," published in Mannheim between 1779 and 1791. The series meticulously documents the ceremonial and historical attire of various European knightly and religious orders, offering a fascinating glimpse into their traditions and cultural significance.
The delicate hand-coloring enhances the engraving’s beauty, making it a valuable addition for collectors of historical costume illustrations, religious art, or artifacts from the Hospitaller Order. The vivid colors and detailed representation of ceremonial dress provide both aesthetic and historical appeal.
Condition Report
Minor foxing along the edges, consistent with age. The hand-coloring is vivid and well-preserved, with minimal handling marks. Overall, an excellent example of late 18th-century engravings.
Framing Tip:
Pair this engraving with a deep crimson or burgundy acid-free mat to complement the rich tones of the cape and gown. A gold-tone frame with subtle decorative detailing will enhance its historic and ceremonial grandeur. UV-resistant glass is recommended to protect the vibrant hand-coloring and ensure long-term preservation. This display will beautifully emphasize the engraving’s artistic and historical significance.
