Knight of the Teutonic Order: 1791 Hand-Colored Engraving in Reception Attire
€ 290
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1791
Sheet size
25.5 × 20.5 cm (10.0 × 8.1 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13888-4
Condition
Minor foxing on the margins and faint toning consistent with age. The hand-coloring is vivid and well-preserved. Minimal creasing near the edges but overall in a very good condition for its age.
About this sheet
Knight of the Teutonic Order: 1791 Hand-Colored Engraving in Reception Attire
This magnificent hand-colored engraving, titled "Ritter des deutschen Ordens am Tage der Aufnahme" (Knight of the Teutonic Order on the Day of Admission), depicts a knight in ceremonial armor, marking the significant occasion of his formal reception into the Teutonic Order. Dressed in resplendent full-plate armor with intricate detailing, the knight’s helmet is adorned with a striking plume of black feathers, exuding both dignity and grandeur. His composed pose, holding gloves and prayer beads, reflects the spiritual and chivalric duality of this medieval military order.
This artwork is part of Christian Friedrich Schwan's celebrated series "Abbildungen derjenigen Ritter-Orden," or "Illustrations of all spiritual and secular orders," published between 1779 and 1791 in Mannheim. Schwan’s work is renowned for its detailed documentation of the costumes and traditions of European chivalric orders, making this engraving not only a visual masterpiece but also a valuable historical document.
The hand-coloring emphasizes the armor’s sheen and the knight’s poised elegance, creating a vivid representation of the Teutonic Order's ceremonial splendor. This engraving is a compelling piece for collectors of military history, heraldry, or medieval art, showcasing the rich traditions and pageantry of one of the most prominent knightly orders of the Middle Ages.
Condition Report: Minor foxing on the margins and faint toning consistent with age. The hand-coloring is vivid and well-preserved. Minimal creasing near the edges but overall in excellent condition for its age.
Framing Tip:
Highlight the engraving’s regal tones with a deep charcoal or navy-blue acid-free mat and a silver or pewter frame to complement the metallic armor. Consider adding museum-grade UV-protective glass to safeguard the vibrant hand-coloring and delicate details for display.
