Set of 10 Hand-Colored Medieval Costume Prints by Paul Mercuri, Paris 1845
€789
$885 · £670
Original print, not a reproduction.
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- Date
- 1845
- Sheet size
- 11.9 × 8.8 in (30.3 × 22.3 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Overall in good condition for age. General age toning and occasional foxing or staining as visible. Minor handling wear and edge imperfections. Colors remain bright and attractive. Please study images carefully.
- Wardrobe
- Court & couture
- Era
- 1840 to 1870, Crinoline
- Stock no.
- f_50579232
Medieval Costumes and Chivalric Figures, Hand-Colored Costume Plates c.1800
A charming and visually striking set of ten original hand-colored costume plates depicting medieval and early Renaissance figures, published around 1800. These finely engraved illustrations present a variety of historical characters, including noblemen, ladies, knights, mounted warriors, heraldic figures, archers, and attendants, all rendered with delicate hand coloring and displayed in period attire.
The plates were produced during the late 18th or early 19th century, a period when antiquarian interest in medieval history, chivalry, and costume studies flourished throughout Europe. Such costume books were intended both as educational references and as decorative works, inspiring artists, architects, stage designers, and collectors fascinated by the romanticized Middle Ages.
Each figure is shown individually against a minimalist background, allowing the costumes, armor, weapons, and ceremonial dress to become the central focus. Particularly attractive are the mounted knight in full armor, the richly caparisoned horseman, the crowned noble figure in ceremonial armor, and the noblewoman accompanied by a child. The bright hand coloring remains remarkably fresh and vibrant, with reds, blues, yellows, and metallic details creating an appealing decorative ensemble.
Today, these prints work exceptionally well as a grouped wall display, offering a sophisticated historical accent for traditional, transitional, or contemporary interiors. The set appeals equally to collectors of medieval history, costume studies, heraldry, equestrian subjects, and decorative antique prints.
Condition report:
Overall in good condition for age. General age toning and occasional foxing or staining as visible. Minor handling wear and edge imperfections. Colors remain bright and attractive. Please study images carefully.
Framing tips:
Excellent displayed as a complete set in matching frames with ivory or cream museum mats. Gilt frames complement the medieval subject matter particularly well. The set creates an impressive gallery wall when arranged in two horizontal rows of five prints.
Technique: Hand-colored engravings
Maker: Anonymous European engraver, Europe, circa 1800
Keywords:
Medieval costume, medieval dress, knight, mounted knight, crusader, armored horseman, nobleman, noblewoman, medieval lady, queen, princess, royal child, courtier, herald, shield bearer, squire, archer, bowman, mounted warrior, chivalric figure, medieval armor, heraldry, court costume, Renaissance costume, historical costume, costume study, Middle Ages, feudal nobility, equestrian costume, historical engraving, hand-colored print, antique print set, decorative wall art, medieval history, knight on horseback, royal costume, ceremonial dress, historic fashion, European costume, gallery wall, set of ten prints.
