Mounted Knight in Tournament Armor c.1400 – Antique Print, 1845

About this sheet

Mounted Knight in Tournament Armor with Lance, circa 1400

This vibrant costume plate, No. 90 from the 1845 publication Costumes Historiques des XIIIe, XIVe et XVe Siècles, offers a dynamic depiction of a fully armored knight engaged in a jousting charge. Both the rider and the horse are resplendently dressed for tournament display, highlighting the theatricality, honor, and pageantry of medieval chivalric contests.

The knight is clad in a gleaming suit of articulated plate armor with decorative elements and articulated shoulder guards. His torso is partially protected by a blue and gold surcoat dotted with heraldic stars. In his right arm he firmly grips a long lance, while his helm—studded and vented—shows only the eyes through its narrow visor. What elevates this print above many others in the series is the fluidity of motion: the rider leans forward in a powerful advance, while the horse surges ahead, legs raised mid-stride, with mane and tail in motion.

The horse’s trappings are among the most striking features of the plate. A long, flowing caparison in a vivid yellow hue covers the animal’s flanks and flutters dramatically with the speed of the charge. The contrast between the warm yellow, the deep pink saddle, and the rich blue of the knight’s armor creates a sense of visual rhythm and heraldic grandeur. The attention to detail in the bridle, reins, and even the protective chamfron on the horse’s face reinforces the martial authenticity of the piece.

This plate is a superb choice for collectors of medieval military history, fans of jousting iconography, or interior decorators seeking a statement piece rich in color and movement. It also serves as an excellent companion to Plate No. 86 from the same series, which depicts a knight raising a sword mid-gallop.

Condition
Good condition overall. The image area is clean and brightly colored with sharp engraving lines. A few faint age spots in the margins are present but do not intrude into the gold highlighted colored scene.

Framing tips
This horizontal composition is ideal for wide wall spaces or above mantelpieces. Use a double mat with parchment and gold tones to reflect the livery of the horse. A broad wooden or antique gold frame enhances the historic impact, while a narrower black frame could give the print a striking, modern edge. Perfect for libraries, game rooms, or spaces with a medieval or equestrian theme.