About this sheet
Costumed Courtly Ritual and Power – King and Angel in 15th-Century Splendor
This vivid hand-colored engraving, published in 1845 as part of the celebrated series Costumes Historiques des XIIIe, XIVe et XVe Siècles, presents a richly detailed visual study of a regal courtly encounter from the early 15th century. The composition, numbered MCCC No. 95, features a crowned monarch seated in an ornate throne, holding a golden sceptre with fleur-de-lis finial, a classic symbol of French monarchy. Draped in a deep pink ceremonial robe adorned with gold embroidery and overlaid with a light blue cloak, the king is depicted as an emblem of power, ritual, and divine right.
The opposing figure, kneeling in reverence, is a female angel dressed in a warm saffron-colored gown, her wings delicately rendered in tones of gold and brown. Her gesture of supplication and attentive posture suggests she brings divine message, counsel, or perhaps entreaty—adding a spiritual or allegorical layer to the scene. She presents the king with a red cap, perhaps as a symbolic offering of humility, obedience, or clerical authority. The visual dialogue between the two characters evokes themes of temporal and spiritual power, with the monarch poised in command yet engaged in the act of listening.
The careful detail in both costumes and props—such as the throne’s carved base, ornamental red cushion, and the patterned rug beneath the king’s feet—reinforces the historical authenticity and artistic refinement of the print. The soft modeling of fabric folds and thoughtful use of color gradients highlight the hand-colorist’s skill, giving this image a luminous and almost theatrical presence.
A print like this is not only of decorative interest but also a remarkable cultural document. It would appeal to collectors of medieval imagery, historical costume, or religious iconography, as well as to interior designers seeking an authoritative historical accent for a study, library, or office.
Condition
Very good overall. The image area is clean and the hand coloring remains bright and unfaded. Minor age-related foxing appears in the margin areas, with a few small spots on the background, but none affecting the central figures. Paper is stable and retains full plate marks.
Framing Tips
This single print works well alone or as part of a curated series. To emphasize its regal and historical character, consider a gold-leaf or antiqued wooden frame paired with a neutral off-white mat. A double mat with an inner red or ochre accent line can enhance the richness of the print’s palette. Leave at least 5 cm of matting around the trimmed image and maintain a visual white space border if placed among other prints from the same series. Ideal for elegant, classic, or thematic historical interiors.
