After Max Tilke, German Costume Plate, 1880, Print

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Antique german costume print 500–1000, hand-colored historical plate this richly detailed antique costume plate presents an elegant and historically informed … Read more Antique german costume print 500–1000, hand-colored historical plate this richly detailed antique costume plate presents an elegant and historically informed overview of clothing worn in germany between the years 500 and 1000. Hand-colored and designed with academic precision, the print captures both the stylistic diversity and the social hierarchy of the early medieval period. The composition is divided into two registers, each carefully illustrating figures of different ranks, professions, and regional traditions, making it an appealing and informative work for collectors of medieval art, fashion history, or european cultural studies. The upper panel shows a group of early medieval figures that includes noblemen, attendants, warriors, and a richly dressed woman. Their attire reflects the transition from late roman influence to early germanic aesthetic—tunics with ornate borders, heavy wool cloaks, chainmail and lamellar armor, round shields, and simple yet expressive headgear. The scene hints at shifting political landscapes, where tribal leaders, early feudal lords, and christianized communities coexisted. The armor and shields depicted here demonstrate the gradual evolution toward the medieval knightly ideal. The lower register highlights more ceremonial and aristocratic costumes. Kings and noblewomen sit or stand in regal poses, showcasing the luxurious fabrics, embroidered patterns, long cloaks, jeweled crowns, and decorative belts typical of the era. The artist pays special attention to texture and color—deep blues, greens, reds, and gold accents—reflecting status and symbolic power. The central figure holding a sword emphasizes the rise of early medieval kingship, while the seated queen displays the elegance of courtly attire. These details make the print both a study in medieval fashion and an evocative cultural document. Printed by ernst wasmuth a.-g. In berlin, the plate comes from a respected late-19th-century publication devoted to accurately documented historical costume. The work of artist max tilke, known for his ethnographic precision, adds considerable artistic and scholarly value. Condition report: good antique condition with soft age toning. Slight edge wear and a small corner crease at upper right, typical for the age. Scattered small spots near the lower margin. Image area clean, colors fresh, and no tears. Framing tips: a warm off-white or ivory mat complements the medieval palette. A walnut or mahogany frame enhances the richness of the colors, while a thin antique-gold frame creates a more regal presence. Consider a double mat in cream with a narrow burgundy inner line to echo the deep red tones in the garments. Technique: hand-colored lithograph maker: max tilke, printed by ernst wasmuth a.-g., berlin, c.1880 See less