Christian Friedrich Schwan, Knight of the Order of the Elephant, 1791, Paper

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This captivating hand-colored engraving illustrates a "Ritter Elephanten-Orden des weißen in Dänemark" (Knight of the Order of the Elephant), Denmark’s … Read more This captivating hand-colored engraving illustrates a "Ritter Elephanten-Orden des weißen in Dänemark" (Knight of the Order of the Elephant), Denmark’s most prestigious chivalric order. The knight is adorned in a magnificently detailed ceremonial cloak featuring elaborate silver embroidery and a striking crimson sash. The ensemble is completed with a plumed hat and the iconic elephant insignia suspended from a gold chain, symbolizing strength and loyalty.

This artwork is part of Christian Friedrich Schwan’s monumental series "Abbildungen derjenigen Ritter-Orden welche eine eigene Ordenskleidung haben," published from 1779 to 1791 in Mannheim. The series meticulously documents the ceremonial attire of Europe’s most illustrious orders, providing a window into the grandeur and symbolism of 18th-century chivalric traditions. The Order of the Elephant, founded in the 15th century, was historically reserved for royalty and the highest-ranking nobles, making this depiction a rare and significant piece of Danish heraldic history.

Condition: Very good condition for its age. The hand-coloring remains vibrant with minor toning and faint edge wear. A faint mark in the lower area, typical for its vintage, does not detract from its overall presentation. See less