About this sheet
Great Britain 1300–1500, Antique Hand-Colored Medieval Costume Print
This finely rendered antique costume plate offers a detailed and elegant overview of British dress between 1300 and 1500, a period defined by the late Middle Ages and the early beginnings of the English Renaissance. Drawn by Max Tilke and printed by Ernst Wasmuth A.-G. in Berlin, the plate captures a wide range of English social types, from armored knights to noblewomen, courtiers, and urban citizens. The hand-coloring is soft yet vibrant, giving the figures a distinct presence while retaining the scholarly clarity of the original publication.
The upper register depicts individuals from the 14th and early 15th centuries. On the left, two armored figures represent the martial culture of medieval England, complete with shields, chainmail, and transitional plate armor. Beside them stands a queen or noblewoman in a red gown trimmed with ermine. Young courtiers and ladies-in-waiting follow, wearing fitted gowns, long sleeves, and elegantly draped fabrics typical of the period.
The lower register moves toward the 15th century, showing the growing influence of continental fashion. A richly dressed courtier in purple robes gestures toward a noblewoman wearing a tightly fitted gown and headdress. Other figures illustrate the evolution of English headwear, from wimples and veils to the early forms of the gable hood. At far right, a colorfully dressed gentleman with a feathered hat reflects the increasing individuality and flourish that characterized late medieval wardrobes.
This plate is of particular interest to collectors of medieval art, historical costume, or British history. The composition offers an engaging perspective on changing silhouettes, materials, and social roles in pre-Tudor England. It makes a superb display piece for libraries, offices, studies, and historically inspired interiors.
Condition report: Good antique condition with gentle age toning. Minor edge wear and a few faint spots in the margins. Image area clean with vivid hand-coloring. No tears or repairs.
Framing tips: Pair with a cream or parchment mat and a dark wood frame to accentuate the medieval palette. A thin gilt frame provides a more formal, museum-like presentation. Floating the sheet preserves the imprint and strengthens the antique character.
IDENTIFICATION OF HISTORICAL PERIOD & SOCIAL CLASSES
Historical period:
– Late Middle Ages (1300–1450)
– Early Renaissance influence in England (1450–1500)
Social classes depicted:
– Knights and military retainers
– Noblewomen and queens
– Courtiers and high-status officials
– Upper-middle-class citizens
– Well-to-do urban residents
– Ladies-in-waiting and attendants
IDENTIFICATION OF COSTUME TYPES SHOWN
Costume types include:
– Transitional plate and chainmail armor
– Heraldic shields and knightly attire
– Long medieval gowns with fitted bodices
– Ermine-trimmed robes indicating nobility
– Courtly mantles and richly colored oversleeves
– Wimples, veils, and early structured headdresses
– Doublets, hose, and belted tunics
– Mantles with decorative trim, draped fabrics
– Feathered hats and court fashion of late medieval England
