Military & Political · 19th century
€ 260
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition report: Good antique condition with gentle age toning. Minor edge wear and faint spots in the margins. Image area clean with bold, even hand-coloring. No tears or losses.
Orders of Knights, Antique Hand-Colored Print of Medieval Orders c.1880
This distinguished antique costume plate depicts several of the major medieval knightly orders, rendered with exceptional clarity and hand-applied color. Drawn by Max Tilke and published by Ernst Wasmuth A.-G. in Berlin, the print offers a richly detailed visual record of military and religious orders, showcasing the distinctive garments, insignia, and ceremonial attire that defined their roles in European history.
The upper register presents members of prominent knightly orders in their characteristic habits. Several figures wear long white mantles marked with red or black crosses—symbols associated with the Knights Templar, the Knights of Saint John (Hospitallers), and other influential religious-military brotherhoods. Each garment is depicted with authentic detail, including the cut of the robes, the shape of the cross emblems, and accessories such as staves, rosaries, and ceremonial crosses. The restrained color palette enhances the solemn and spiritual nature of these orders.
The lower register displays more elaborate and courtly interpretations of knightly fashion. Here, richly dressed members of chivalric orders appear in ornate robes decorated with embroidery, brocade, and jewel-like colors. These garments reflect the prestige of high-ranking positions within these orders, especially during the later medieval and early Renaissance periods when symbolic dress became ever more elaborate. The juxtaposition of austere monastic garb with luxurious ceremonial costume highlights the diversity of roles within the broader world of religious knighthood.
This plate will appeal to collectors of medieval history, heraldry, costume, and ecclesiastical art. Its rich colors, balanced composition, and academic accuracy make it a compelling decorative piece suited to libraries, studies, and historically themed interiors.
Condition report: Very good antique condition with gentle age toning. Minor edge wear and a few faint margin spots consistent with age. Image area clean with strong hand-coloring. Plate number “73” visible at top. No tears or repairs.
Framing tips: A cream or parchment-colored mat harmonizes with the robes and neutral background. A dark walnut or oak frame lends a formal, monastic character, while a thin gilt frame complements the more ornate lower figures. Floating the sheet preserves the entire imprint for a refined, museum-style presentation.
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph
Maker: Max Tilke, printed by Ernst Wasmuth A.-G., Berlin, c.1880
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