Jost Amman, Roman Courtesan, 1577, Hand-Coloured Woodcut

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Roman Courtesan – Antique Hand-Coloured Woodcut by Jost Amman, Plate CXLI, 1577 This rare 16th-century hand-coloured woodcut portrays a courtesan … Read more Roman Courtesan – Antique Hand-Coloured Woodcut by Jost Amman, Plate CXLI, 1577 This rare 16th-century hand-coloured woodcut portrays a courtesan of Rome, titled Curtisana Sive Meretrix Romana. She is shown in modest-appearing attire: a long pleated skirt in warm brown and ochre tones, with a green mantle draped over her head and shoulders, covering her body almost entirely. The visual intent is to suggest a disguise of piety and propriety, contrasted with the reality of her role. The German verses beneath the figure read: “Also gehen daher zu Rom / Die Curtisanen sollen seyn fromb / Führen eusserlich ein scheinbar leben / Wie sie innen sind weis Gott darneben.” This translates as: “Thus walk in Rome the courtesans, appearing outwardly pious and modest, leading a seemingly virtuous life, though God alone knows their true hearts.” Such inscriptions reinforced for contemporary readers the moral lessons tied to clothing and appearance. The print originates from Jost Amman’s celebrated Habitus praecipuorum populorum tam virorum quam foeminarum singulari arte depicti (Nuremberg, 1577), published by Hans Weigel. Known as the Trachtenbuch, this monumental work illustrated the costumes of men and women from around the world, making it one of the earliest and most influential costume books of the Renaissance. Jost Amman (1539–1591), originally from Zurich, settled in Nuremberg where he became one of the most prolific illustrators of his century. His detailed woodcuts captured professions, fashions, and daily life, and his Trachtenbuch remains a milestone in early ethnographic and costume studies. Condition: Good impression with strong hand-colouring. Some toning and light foxing consistent with age, minor handling traces and small imperfections at sheet edges. Crisp woodcut lines preserved. Framing tips: A dark wood or ebony frame with a cream mat will provide a refined presentation. A gilt frame highlights the historical and decorative character of the image, suitable for collectors of Renaissance prints. Technique: Hand-coloured woodcut Maker: Jost Amman, published by Hans Weigel, Nuremberg, 1577 See less