Mercuri, Historical Portraits of Sixtus IV, Platina and a Noble Englishwoman, 1845, Prints, Set of 3

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Title: historical portraits of sixtus iv, platina, and a noble englishwoman : this refined compilation of three hand-colored engravings presents … Read more Title: historical portraits of sixtus iv, platina, and a noble englishwoman : this refined compilation of three hand-colored engravings presents significant historical figures and fashion from the late middle ages, based on authentic artworks and sculptural sources. These images were originally published in the rare and celebrated 1845 folio edition of “costumes historiques des xiiie, xive et xve siècles,” designed and engraved by paul mercuri with accompanying scholarly text by camille bonnard, and issued by the distinguished parisian firm goupil & vibert. The first print (mcccc no. 1) portrays pope sixtus iv (1414–1484), born francesco della rovere. Known for commissioning the sistine chapel and his patronage of renaissance arts and scholarship, sixtus iv is shown here seated with solemn dignity, wearing the papal mozzetta and camauro. The crimson and gold decoration of the throne he occupies reflects the opulence and ceremonial formality of the papal court. This rendering is not only a costume study but a powerful image of ecclesiastical authority and cultural legacy. The second figure (mcccc no. 2) is bartolomeo platina (1421–1481), humanist, historian, and the first prefect of the vatican library. He is depicted in a modest yet scholarly pose, wearing a red robe and enveloped in a voluminous gray cloak, representing his learned status and intellectual rigor. This portrayal captures both the elegance of his dress and the introspective character of a man central to the humanist movement under the patronage of sixtus iv. The third image (mccc no. 3) features a noble anglaise, or english noblewoman, dressed in the lavish court attire typical of 14th-century english aristocracy. Her gown is richly colored and lined with ermine, while her voluminous overcloak and bejeweled headpiece exemplify the ceremonial fashion of high-ranking medieval women. This figure provides an exceptional glimpse into gendered fashion and the status symbolism embedded in textile, cut, and ornament. These three engravings offer a unique confluence of fashion history, portraiture, and intellectual heritage. As a set, they narrate a dialogue between power, knowledge, and nobility through finely rendered costume and careful historical referencing. Condition: the prints are in good condition, with vivid original hand-coloring. Some light foxing is present around the borders, but the main image areas are clean and well preserved. Plates are sharply defined and finely detailed. Framing tips: frame this set together as a horizontal triptych or individually in matching frames. Use classic, understated mouldings in dark wood, gold, or antique silver, with off-white or pale ivory matting to bring out the clarity of the figures and colors. This enhances their museum-quality appearance and historical value. See less