Hand-Coloured Lithograph of Knights in Aftermath of a Broken Lance Duel, 1842

19th-Century Hand-Coloured Lithograph of Knights in Aftermath of a Broken Lance Duel

This original, hand-coloured lithograph from 1842 provides a rare, intimate perspective on the dramatic climax of a medieval joust. It is drawn from the celebrated publication *Der Rittersaal: Eine Geschichte des Ritterthums*, printed in Stuttgart by Carl Hoffmann. The artist, Friedrich Martin von Reibisch, and the historian, Dr. Franz Kottenkamp, worked together on this volume to depict and contextualize the grandeur, ritual, and martial codes of European chivalry.

In this scene, two fully armoured knights, still mounted upon their sturdy warhorses, momentarily pause amid the scattered remains of their lances and shattered visors. The discarded pieces of armor and broken weaponry strewn across the ground evoke the intensity of the recent engagement, where splintered lances and dented helms testify to the raw impact of the joust. The horses, portrayed with meticulous anatomical accuracy and subtle shading, enhance the sense of realism and movement. Each finely painted detail, from the delicate linework of the armor’s fluting to the understated tones of the steel, reflects the lithographer’s skill and dedication.

The print survives in good condition for its age, with only light toning and faint creasing along the fold line, all consistent with its 19th-century origin. The vibrant hand-applied colours remain remarkably strong, highlighting the richness of the armour’s design and the authenticity of the historical portrayal. Perfect for collectors of medieval art, historical costume, or equestrian subjects, this lithograph is a captivating artifact that encapsulates both the spectacle and the gravity of a knightly tournament. It will add depth, narrative, and visual interest to any refined collection.