Set of 10 Hand-Colored Medieval Costume Prints by Paul Mercuri, Paris 1845

€ 789

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1845
Mapmaker / artist: Anonymous European engraver, Europe, circa 1800
Technique: Hand-colored engravings
Sheet size: 30.3 × 22.3 cm (11.9 × 8.8 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-14024-2-61 etc

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

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 review the images for further condition details.

About this sheet

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.