About this sheet
Sienese Nobility and Knight of the Knot in Lavish Medieval Costume
This magnificent set of three hand-colored lithographs showcases a vivid panorama of Italian dress and heraldic identity from the 14th and early 15th centuries. These plates, originally published in 1845 as part of a prestigious historical costume series, deliver exceptional detail, expressive color, and scholarly value. They depict three figures representing different strata of civic and noble life, all tied to Siena and its ceremonial culture.
Plate No.24, titled "Noble Siennois", features a distinguished man in full ceremonial attire. His red outer robe, embroidered in geometric motifs, falls over a pale blue gown and darker blue shoes. He holds what appears to be a small item or token, possibly part of a ritual or courtly gesture. His gesture and upright stance suggest authority and reflection, emblematic of a high-ranking Sienese citizen.
Plate No.25, also titled "Noble Siennois", depicts a noblewoman dressed in layers of patterned silk and golden-yellow skirts, crowned with an openwork circlet. Her lavender bodice, delicately patterned and girdled at the waist, and the decorative fringe of her outer garment reflect the luxury and textile sophistication of the Sienese aristocracy. The figure’s poised and confident expression projects the power and visibility of women in prominent Sienese families during this era.
Plate No.26, "Chevalier du Noeud" (Knight of the Knot), introduces a richly armored figure bearing a shield with a red cross and eagle motif. The knight wears full plate armor with a distinctive crested helmet and holds his heraldic shield confidently in front. This representation likely refers to the chivalric Order of the Knot, established in Naples in the 14th century under the Angevin dynasty, linking southern Italy’s knightly orders with broader European heraldic traditions.
The juxtaposition of courtly ceremony, female nobility, and martial valor makes this set particularly appealing to collectors of heraldry, costume history, and Italian civic culture. Their charm lies not only in their visual appeal but in the historical richness they encapsulate.
Condition:
All three prints are in very good condition. Colors are vibrant and well-preserved, with only minor toning and light foxing in the wide margins. Image areas remain clean and undisturbed.
Framing Tips:
Frame these prints as a horizontal triptych to enhance their thematic continuity. Use cream or parchment-colored mats to accentuate the red and gold tones. Antique gilt or walnut frames provide a historically appropriate setting. Display in formal interiors such as libraries, offices, or hallways to celebrate Italian noble heritage and Renaissance pageantry.
