After Max Tilke, Byzantine Imperial Costume Plate, 1880, Print

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Byzantine costume plate 800–1100, antique hand-colored print c.1880 this beautifully rendered antique costume plate presents a vivid overview of byzantine … Read more Byzantine costume plate 800–1100, antique hand-colored print c.1880 this beautifully rendered antique costume plate presents a vivid overview of byzantine dress from the years 800–1100, a period marked by imperial splendor, court ritual, and highly codified ceremonial clothing. Divided into two richly composed registers, the print offers a detailed look at officials, nobles, soldiers, clergy, and attendants, each wearing garments that reflect the cultural, political, and religious significance of byzantium at its height. The upper register portrays imperial and aristocratic figures, including a seated ruler with shield and mace, clerical dignitaries in embroidered vestments, and military leaders clad in elaborately patterned armor. The deep reds, blues, and golds—accentuated through hand-applied coloring—evoke the visual richness of the eastern roman empire. The ornamental cloaks, tablia, jeweled fibulae, and meticulously illustrated shields reflect the artistic priorities of byzantine textile workshops and court attire. The lower register highlights additional figures associated with both secular and ecclesiastical roles. Soldiers hold spears and rounded shields decorated with intricate patterns, while court officials are shown carrying vessels and wearing garments edged with geometric motifs. A bishop in green and white vestments brings religious hierarchy into focus. The blending of military, ceremonial, and clerical types makes this plate especially appealing to collectors of early medieval art and costume. Printed by ernst wasmuth a.-g. In berlin and drawn by max tilke, the plate comes from one of the most respected historical costume publications of the late 19th century. Its combination of scholarly accuracy and decorative appeal makes it an ideal wall piece for interiors with classical, byzantine, or academic themes. Condition report: very good antique condition with soft age toning. Minor edge wear and faint spotting in margins. Image area clean with strong, vivid coloring. Framing tips: use a warm ivory mat to complement the gold and crimson tones. A dark walnut frame adds richness, while a thin antique-gold frame enhances the regal character of the figures. Floating the sheet shows the full imprint and reinforces a museum-quality presentation. Technique: hand-colored lithograph maker: max tilke, printed by ernst wasmuth a.-g., berlin, c.1880 --- ## **plate 59 — byzantium (800–1100)** title: byzantine imperial costume plate 800–1100, hand-colored print c.1880 this elegant antique costume plate illustrates the height of byzantine imperial and ecclesiastical fashion from the 9th to 11th centuries. The print is divided into two registers that present an exceptional variety of rulers, courtiers, church officials, and noblewomen, each wearing garments rich in symbolism, ornament, and ceremonial importance. The upper scene showcases emperors and empresses in splendid court dress. The intricate patterns of their robes—highlighted with gold, olive green, purple, and rose—reflect the technical mastery of byzantine weaving and embroidery. One emperor holds a richly decorated book, while another carries a ceremonial staff, emphasizing their dual spiritual and political authority. The use of loros, polystavrion patterns, and ornate borders underscores the sacred hierarchy of the imperial court. In the lower register, the focus shifts to high-ranking clergy and additional noble figures. Bishops wearing omophoria and decorated stoles stand next to noblewomen dressed in jeweled crowns and patterned gowns. The architectural background hints at byzantium’s monumental church heritage, reinforcing the era’s blend of faith and state. This plate offers exceptional appeal to collectors of byzantine art, medieval textiles, religious history, and historical costume. The hand-applied colors remain vibrant, bringing to life the luxurious fabrics and ceremonial regalia that defined the empire’s visual culture. Condition report: very good antique condition with light age toning. Small spots near the lower margin, a few soft margin creases, and gentle edge wear typical for the age. Colors remain bright and image area is clean. Plate number “59” visible at top. Framing tips: pair with a pale cream or parchment mat to enhance the jewel-like palette. A gilded frame creates a powerful imperial effect, while a dark mahogany or black frame offers a more modern contrast that highlights the intricate patterns. Technique: hand-colored lithograph maker: max tilke, printed by ernst wasmuth a.-g., berlin, c.1880 See less