Antique Hand-Colored Print – 15th Century Lady with Braided Hair & Mantle, 1845

About this sheet

Renaissance Lady in Profile with Braided Hair and Mantle, circa 15th Century

Plate No. 89 from the 1845 publication Costumes Historiques des XIIIe, XIVe et XVe Siècles features a refined and graceful Renaissance woman, rendered in soft yet vibrant colors and depicted in an elegant three-quarter pose. This print stands out within the collection for its emphasis on texture, drapery, and femininity, capturing the poise and luxury associated with upper-class Italian court life in the 15th century.

The lady wears a sweeping white gown that pools at her feet, over which is draped a deep rose-pink mantle with a vivid green and gold fringe. The mantle, slung across the shoulder and tied at the front, frames the rich blue underdress whose sleeves puff gracefully above the elbow. Her garments are not only elegantly layered but also carefully ornamented, emphasizing the taste for textile richness and tailored volume characteristic of the period.

Her most captivating feature, however, is her hair—an exceptionally long golden braid intertwined with ribbon and coiled down her back. Crowned with a fine golden headdress or cap, the hair echoes both the ideals of courtly beauty and the technical skill of period hairstyling. The figure’s modest downward gaze and the way she holds the edge of her mantle suggest a moment of thoughtful pause, perhaps captured just before entering a formal gathering.

This print is a superb example of Renaissance fashion illustration and appeals to collectors of historical dress, costume designers, or decorators seeking timeless feminine grace. It is especially compelling when paired with complementary male costume prints or other female portraits from the same series.

Condition
The print is in good condition. The image area is pristine, with two light stains near the image. The colors are rich and clear with gold highlighted, with just the lightest age-related toning in the margins. The plate impression is crisp and sharp.

Framing tips
To enhance the delicate elegance of this print, use a pale ivory or soft sage mat that will draw out the gown’s lighter tones. A gold or gilt wood frame will highlight the warm accents in the braid and mantle fringe. The vertical orientation makes this print ideal for narrow wall spaces, dressing rooms, or alcoves. When combined with other costume plates, this image adds a lyrical and dignified feminine note.