Antique 1845 Hand-Colored Engraving of Medieval Singer in Pink Robe, France
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1845
Sheet size
30.3 × 22.3 cm (11.9 × 8.8 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14024-2-2
Condition
Good condition. The engraving is clean with strong original hand-coloring and excellent paper quality. Some light spotting in the margins and minor age-toning at the edges, not affecting the image area. Wide margins suitable for framing.
About this sheet
Antique 1845 Hand-Colored Engraving of Medieval Singer in Pink Robe, France
This finely hand-colored engraving from 1845 depicts a medieval male singer or minstrel, shown standing in profile and intently reading a musical manuscript. The figure wears a long, rose-colored robe with a deep crimson overfold, accented with gold and blue trim. The elegantly draped garment and the subject’s serene expression convey a sense of focused devotion, likely in preparation for a performance or liturgical chant.
Rendered in the style of early 15th-century dress (noted by the inscription “MCCCC. No 2” beneath the image), this figure exemplifies the romanticized medieval aesthetic favored in the 19th century. The work belongs to a series celebrating historical costume and ecclesiastical life, part of the broader Gothic Revival movement in mid-19th-century France. The simple yet dignified pose of the singer, paired with the soft pastel coloring, creates a refined composition emphasizing culture, intellect, and spiritual tradition.
This print likely served as both an artistic study and a visual reference for the history of costume, aligning with the period’s interest in reconstructing the Middle Ages through art, architecture, and literature.
Condition: Good condition. The engraving is clean with strong original hand-coloring and excellent paper quality. Some light spotting in the margins and minor age-toning at the edges, not affecting the image area. Wide margins suitable for framing.
Framing tip: This piece would pair well with others from the same series in a uniform presentation. A slim black or walnut frame with a warm ivory mat will highlight the figure’s coloring and period detail. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the soft pigments.
