Vibrant Heraldic Horses and Armor, 1842, Paper

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19th-Century Hand-Coloured Knightly Joust Print: Vibrant Heraldic Horses and Armor This exquisite original hand-coloured lithograph, dating from 1842, transports the … Read more 19th-Century Hand-Coloured Knightly Joust Print: Vibrant Heraldic Horses and Armor This exquisite original hand-coloured lithograph, dating from 1842, transports the viewer to the heart of a lively jousting tournament. It originates from the renowned publication *Der Rittersaal: Eine Geschichte des Ritterthums*, published in Stuttgart by Carl Hoffmann, with artistic direction from Friedrich Martin von Reibisch and historical annotation by Dr. Franz Kottenkamp. Together, they crafted a work that brilliantly chronicles and visualizes the traditions, costumes, and martial events of medieval and Renaissance European nobility. In this vivid scene, two knights, mounted on splendidly adorned warhorses, charge towards each other at full tilt. Their elaborate armor, lances, and helmets reflect a wealth of artistry and heraldic significance. The richly decorated horse caparisons feature bold stripes and embroidered letters, all painstakingly represented in gleaming yellows, blues, and blacks. These symbols likely correspond to specific noble families, heraldic lineages, or personal mottos, turning the joust into a spectacle of social prestige as well as martial skill. The hand-applied colouring remains remarkably fresh, highlighting every intricate detail of the armor, horse tack, and fabric. Minor age-related wear, including faint creases and subtle toning, does not detract from the print’s impact. Instead, it attests to its authentic 19th-century origin. See less