About this sheet
France 15th Century, Pair of Antique Hand-Colored Costume Prints
This beautifully matched pair of hand-colored costume plates presents a vibrant and detailed view of French fashion during the 15th century, a defining era that bridges the late Middle Ages and the rise of early Renaissance court culture. Drawn by Max Tilke and published by Ernst Wasmuth A.-G. in Berlin, these plates stand out for their crisp linework, rich coloration, and exceptional accuracy in depicting the fabrics, silhouettes, and social distinctions of the period.
The first plate (No. 96) features both men and women of the French court and upper classes. The upper register shows richly dressed noblemen with feathered caps, short doublets, decorative hose, and fur-lined mantles—fashions that illustrate the transition from medieval tailoring to early Renaissance elegance. Their poses suggest conversation, refinement, and the social rituals of French court life. Below, the plate highlights elaborate women's dress, including flowing gowns embroidered with heraldic motifs, broad collars, decorative girdles, and the distinctive French headwear of the time. The gold details and colored cloaks reflect the high status and artistic taste of the elite.
The second plate (No. 97) focuses strongly on the feminine silhouette of the 15th century, displaying a remarkable selection of gowns, crowns, veils, and iconic French headdresses such as the hennin and the heart-shaped escoffion. The upper row includes noblewomen dressed in long, fitted gowns adorned with symbolic colors and patterns, while the lower register moves into ceremonial and royal fashion. Several figures represent queens or court ladies in formal attire, including heavily embroidered gold robes and stiff, architectural headpieces that signify position and prestige. This plate captures some of the most recognizable and historically referenced costumes in late medieval Europe.
Together, these two plates form an exquisite historical ensemble, ideal for collectors of fashion history, Francophiles, interior designers, or anyone seeking art with both decorative beauty and scholarly depth. Their hand-coloring remains bright and harmonious, with each print offering a clear narrative of how French fashion evolved during a culturally transformative century.
Condition report: Both prints are in good condition with soft, even age toning and minor edge wear typical of antique sheets. Image areas are clean and well-preserved. Colors remain strong and balanced across both plates.
Framing suggestion: These plates display particularly well when framed side-by-side in walnut, maple, or gilt frames with light cream or French-grey mats. Their vertical format and complementary color palettes make them ideal for hallways, studies, dressing rooms, or classic interiors inspired by European art.
Technique: Hand-colored lithographs
Maker: Max Tilke, printed by Ernst Wasmuth A.-G., Berlin, c.1880
