{"title":"Aristocracy","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNobility, Power, and Cultural Identity in European History\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAcross European history, the noble class shaped politics, culture, and \u003cstrong\u003esociety\u003c\/strong\u003e through a complex system of hereditary privilege and symbolic authority. Many \u003cstrong\u003eantique items\u003c\/strong\u003e linked to this world—garments, insignia, and \u003cstrong\u003eworn items or pieces\u003c\/strong\u003e—survive today in \u003cstrong\u003emuseum\u003c\/strong\u003e archives or private \u003cstrong\u003ecollection\u003c\/strong\u003es, offering some of the \u003cstrong\u003ebest\u003c\/strong\u003e and most \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal\u003c\/strong\u003e material evidence of aristocratic life. These objects reveal how status was expressed through \u003cstrong\u003eclothing\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eaccessories\u003c\/strong\u003e, and ceremonial regalia, each crafted in a \u003cstrong\u003edifferent style\u003c\/strong\u003e that reflected regional traditions and shifting ideals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTitles such as duke, count, or baron were deeply \u003cstrong\u003erelated\u003c\/strong\u003e to land ownership, military leadership, and political influence. Before the rise of \u003cstrong\u003edemocracy\u003c\/strong\u003e, nobles held legal privileges, including tax exemptions and judicial authority, shaping the lives of ordinary \u003cstrong\u003epeople\u003c\/strong\u003e for centuries. Their attire and personal objects—now viewed as \u003cstrong\u003evintage\u003c\/strong\u003e treasures—display distinctive \u003cstrong\u003efeatures\u003c\/strong\u003e that illustrate the hierarchy and symbolism embedded in \u003cstrong\u003eantique fashion\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEven as revolutions and reforms reduced aristocratic power, noble families continued to influence diplomacy, culture, and heritage. Their \u003cstrong\u003evintage\u003c\/strong\u003e artifacts remain \u003cstrong\u003egood\u003c\/strong\u003e examples of how identity and authority were communicated through material culture. Whether preserved in a \u003cstrong\u003emuseum\u003c\/strong\u003e or curated in a private \u003cstrong\u003ecollection\u003c\/strong\u003e, these items help us understand how Europe’s elite navigated tradition, transformation, and the emergence of modern political systems.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"doll-kaiserin-elisabeth-von-osterreich-sisi-empress-elizabeth-of-austria-gayle-wray","title":"Doll Sisi, Empress Elizabeth of Austria, Gayle Wray","description":"\u003cp\u003eHandmade and unique doll with the likeness of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, Sissi. The doll was made in the USA by Gayle Wray. It was a special production for us. The black court dress of Empress Elisabeth (long train, made of moiree silk) served as a model. This doll belongs in a museum or in the display case of Emperor Elisabeth collectors. The doll is not a children's toy, but a unique piece. The clothes are not attached to the doll; they are removable. The doll stands on a stand, which is included in the delivery. Features of the doll: She has sparkling brown eyes and chestnut brown hair, which is styled into a half-up, half-down plait. She has a face and body made of fabric and soft, flexible joints. Her shoulders, upper arms, hands, wrists, hips, knees and ankles are flexible. Her face is unique and hand-painted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe has natural fingernails and toenails. Clothing: She wears authentic silk underwear, consisting of undershirt and underpants\/pantalettes, functional corset, bustle and petticoat. Her jacket and skirt are made of black, watermarked fabric and decorated with black lace and pearl trimming. Fan: A black, handmade fan was her accessory of choice. Shoes: Her elegant black low-heeled slippers feature beaded bows and contrasting lavender soles and heels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:: ~ 58 cm \u003cbr\u003eLength with train: ~ 86 cm \u003cbr\u003eWaist: ~ 18 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mein Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340863029635,"sku":"","price":3000.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/empress-elizabeth-of-Austria.jpg?v=1745428513"},{"product_id":"handkerchief-of-a-noblewoman-spain-ca-1820-1830","title":"Handkerchief of a Noblewoman, Spain, ca. 1820-1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntique handkerchief from the Biedermeier period. Beautifully embroidered in the four corners with an image of a woman wearing a dress with club sleeves. She is sitting on a bench and carrying an umbrella with fringes in one hand. Embroidered border with small stylized waves and hearts. Lace decorates the handkerchief. In good condition. Discreet stains. Handkerchiefs of this type were made by noblemen in many hours of manual labor - either for themselves or as a gift (then often to a gentleman).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: ~ 55 x 55 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mein Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340866503043,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/b80dbbae-il_fullxfull.6360512536_6snr.jpg?v=1745073695"},{"product_id":"handkerchief-of-a-noblewoman-spain-ca-1830-1840","title":"Handkerchief of a Noblewoman, Spain, ca. 1830-1840","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntique handkerchief from the early Biedermeier period. Beautifully embroidered in the four corners with a leaf and tendril motif. There is also a coat of arms-like embroidery with a stylized crown. Lace decorates the handkerchief. In good condition. Discreet stains, a few small holes. Handkerchiefs of this type were made by noblemen in many hours of manual labor - either for themselves or as a gift (then often to a gentleman).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: ~ 40 x 40 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mein Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340866699651,"sku":"","price":290.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/95c79844-il_fullxfull.6408586947_5ea3.jpg?v=1745073730"},{"product_id":"1867-1870-oppermann-co-evening-shoes-princely-house-of-wied-berlin-antique-shoes-victorian-shoes","title":"OPPERMANN Antique Lilac Leather Evening Shoes, Berlin, ca. 1867-1870","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese extraordinary \u003cstrong\u003elilac silk shoes\u003c\/strong\u003e, dating to around \u003cstrong\u003e1867–1870\u003c\/strong\u003e, come with an exceptional and fully traceable \u003cstrong\u003eroyal and collector’s provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e. Their history begins with \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Frederick Charles of Orange‑Nassau (1797–1881)\u003c\/strong\u003e, Prince of the Netherlands, and his wife \u003cstrong\u003eLuise Auguste of Hohenzollern (1808–1870)\u003c\/strong\u003e, Princess of Prussia. Their daughter, \u003cstrong\u003eWilhelmine Frederica Alexandrine Anna Louise Marie of Orange‑Nassau (1841–1910)\u003c\/strong\u003e, married \u003cstrong\u003eWilhelm Adolph Maximilian Carl zu Wied\u003c\/strong\u003e, the 5th Prince of Wied.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmong their descendants was \u003cstrong\u003eWilhelmine Friederike Auguste Alexandrine Marie Elisabeth Luise zu Wied (1880–1965)\u003c\/strong\u003e. Two years after her death, these shoes were auctioned at \u003cstrong\u003eChristie’s\u003c\/strong\u003e together with other garments and accessories from her estate. They were purchased on \u003cstrong\u003e11 July 1967\u003c\/strong\u003e by the renowned collector \u003cstrong\u003eDoris Langley Moore (1902–1989) - \u003c\/strong\u003eone of the most influential private collectors of historic dress and the founder of the \u003cstrong\u003eFashion Museum in Bath\u003c\/strong\u003e (est. 1963).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom Langley Moore’s collection, the shoes later entered the celebrated archive of \u003cstrong\u003eHelen Larson\u003c\/strong\u003e, the California‑based collector, historian, and costume expert whose holdings have been featured in major exhibitions worldwide. Parts of the Larson Collection were auctioned on \u003cstrong\u003e1 April 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e, which is how these exquisite shoes resurfaced.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe shoes themselves are a rare and refined example of \u003cstrong\u003emid‑Victorian luxury footwear\u003c\/strong\u003e. Made of \u003cstrong\u003eexceptional lilac silk\u003c\/strong\u003e, they feature an \u003cstrong\u003eopen instep\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003etwo matching silk bows\u003c\/strong\u003e, and a \u003cstrong\u003elight‑colored leather lining\u003c\/strong\u003e. The original maker’s label reads: \u003cstrong\u003e“Oppermann \u0026amp; Co. * 60 Unter den Linden 60 * Berlin”\u003c\/strong\u003e, the full name being \u003cem\u003e“Shoe and Boot Factory for Men and Women”\u003c\/em\u003e. Unfortunately, as with many 19th‑century ateliers, no further documentation of Oppermann \u0026amp; Co. has survived.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe shoes are in \u003cstrong\u003eexcellent condition\u003c\/strong\u003e, with only one small defect on the side—remarkable for their age and delicate material. Their provenance suggests they may have been worn either by \u003cstrong\u003eLuise Auguste, Princess of Prussia\u003c\/strong\u003e, or by \u003cstrong\u003eLouise Marie of Orange‑Nassau\u003c\/strong\u003e, making them an object of both historical and aristocratic significance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA rare opportunity to acquire \u003cstrong\u003emuseum‑quality footwear\u003c\/strong\u003e with \u003cstrong\u003edocumented royal lineage\u003c\/strong\u003e and a distinguished chain of ownership through three of the most important collectors of historic dress.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mein Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340867715459,"sku":"","price":3200.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/antique_evening_pumps_1867.jpg?v=1745147944"},{"product_id":"1895-black-ostrich-feather-fan-antique-fan-victorian-fan","title":"Black Ostrich Feather Fan, Noble Property, ca. 1895","description":"\u003cp\u003eOstrich feather fan, circa 1895, black feathers that are smooth to the touch. Perhaps the typical “ruffle” of the ostrich feathers has been trimmed to give the fan a certain elegance, but also austerity. Rods made from “false” tortoiseshell. Cover stick with a small gold-colored crown. Very good condition. Only one “eye” on the bow has been lost. This does not affect the functionality of this very beautiful fan. The decoration is not included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuard Length: ~ 21 cm\u003cbr\u003eWidth: ~ 65 cm (when opened)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mein Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340868895107,"sku":"","price":290.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/c5ee48a8-il_fullxfull.6347670271_j8vz.jpg?v=1745563771"},{"product_id":"1908-coat-ermine-and-irisch-crochet-lace-coat-antique-coat-antique-dress-antique-gown-marija-pawlowna-romanowa-russia-edwardian-coat","title":"Antique Ermine Coat, ca. 1908 – Marija Pawlowna Romanowa, Imperial Russia","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis exquisite \u003cstrong\u003eantique ermine and lace coat\u003c\/strong\u003e, dating to \u003cstrong\u003eca. 1908\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a rare masterpiece of early \u003cstrong\u003eEdwardian luxury fashion\u003c\/strong\u003e and an exceptional example of aristocratic wardrobe craftsmanship. The coat presents a striking interplay of \u003cstrong\u003epure white ermine fur\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003efine Irish lace\u003c\/strong\u003e, arranged in alternating vertical panels that create a dramatic, almost architectural silhouette. The fur is richly decorated with intact \u003cstrong\u003eermine tails\u003c\/strong\u003e, while the interior is lined with soft \u003cstrong\u003esilk\u003c\/strong\u003e and finished along the edges with delicate \u003cstrong\u003epleated tulle\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe coat features elegant \u003cstrong\u003ehalf‑length pagoda sleeves\u003c\/strong\u003e with matching \u003cstrong\u003etulle inner sleeves\u003c\/strong\u003e, adding depth, movement, and a refined sculptural quality. Despite its age, the exterior remains in \u003cstrong\u003eexcellent condition\u003c\/strong\u003e, with only a small stain in the lace at the back. The inner tulle shows areas of thinning—typical for garments of this period—but still allows the coat to be worn with care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis remarkable piece comes from an old European collection and is attributed to the family of \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Duchess Maria Pavlovna Romanova\u003c\/strong\u003e. It may even have belonged to her personally. Maria Pavlovna (1890–1958), daughter of \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Duke Pavel Alexandrovich Romanov\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003ePrincess Alexandra of Greece and Denmark\u003c\/strong\u003e, was one of the most celebrated members of the \u003cstrong\u003eHouse of Romanov-Holstein-Gottorp\u003c\/strong\u003e. Raised in the cultured household of \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003ePrincess Elisabeth of Hesse-Darmstadt\u003c\/strong\u003e, she received an elite education in languages, music, art, and court etiquette. In 1908, she married \u003cstrong\u003ePrince Wilhelm of Sweden\u003c\/strong\u003e, Duke of Södermanland, in Tsarskoye Selo—precisely the period to which this coat dates.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCombining \u003cstrong\u003eimperial Russian provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eermine fur\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eIrish lace\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the refined aesthetics of \u003cstrong\u003eEdwardian couture\u003c\/strong\u003e, this coat is an extraordinary museum‑quality garment. It stands as a rare surviving testament to the opulence, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of \u003cstrong\u003eRomanov-era fashion\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antique Gown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55340869550467,"sku":"","price":5100.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/1_antique_ermine_coat_Marija_Pawlowna_Romanowa_1908.jpg?v=1778926057"},{"product_id":"general-cloak-of-the-english-army-ernst-august-of-hanover-ca-1910","title":"Ernst August of Hanover – Provisional English General’s Tunic, Firmin \u0026 Son, ca. 1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eexceptionally rare provisional tunic or cloak\u003c\/strong\u003e, worn by \u003cstrong\u003eErnst August (II) of Hanover (1845–1923)\u003c\/strong\u003e in his capacity as a \u003cstrong\u003eGeneral of the English Army\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a remarkable piece of late 19th‑ to early 20th‑century aristocratic military attire. Tailored in the \u003cstrong\u003eEnglish style\u003c\/strong\u003e, the long tunic is made of \u003cstrong\u003efine black cloth\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong\u003eblack velvet cuffs\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003eblack velvet stand‑up collar\u003c\/strong\u003e, reflecting the understated elegance of high‑ranking British officers’ uniforms.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe front displays \u003cstrong\u003etwo rows of eight gilt buttons\u003c\/strong\u003e, each bearing the insignia of a \u003cstrong\u003egeneral of the mounted artillery\u003c\/strong\u003e—crossed sword and cannon within a laurel wreath. The reverse of the buttons carries the embossed maker’s mark \u003cstrong\u003e“Firmin \u0026amp; Son Ld. London”\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Britain’s most prestigious military outfitters. The tunic is lined in \u003cstrong\u003eblack cloth\u003c\/strong\u003e, with the sleeves finished in \u003cstrong\u003ewhite silk\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA historically important detail is the \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal inventory label\u003c\/strong\u003e from the royal wardrobe of the House of Hanover, attached to the left lapel. It reads (translated): \u003cem\u003e“Wardrobe of His Royal Highness the Duke of Cumberland, Duke of Brunswick and Lüneburg – object”\u003c\/em\u003e with handwritten additions: \u003cem\u003e“Provisional tunic Engl.”\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003e“no. 3”\u003c\/em\u003e. The piece is preserved in \u003cstrong\u003every good to excellent condition\u003c\/strong\u003e. Photographs shown in listings are not included.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErnst August (II)\u003c\/strong\u003e—Crown Prince of Hanover, 3rd Duke of Cumberland and Teviotdale, and Duke of Brunswick and Lüneburg—was the only son of \u003cstrong\u003eGeorge V\u003c\/strong\u003e, the last King of Hanover. After Prussia annexed the kingdom in 1866, he followed his father into exile in Austria, where \u003cstrong\u003eEmperor Franz Joseph I\u003c\/strong\u003e admitted him to the Austrian army as a colonel. Upon his father’s death in 1878, he inherited the ducal titles. \u003cstrong\u003eQueen Victoria\u003c\/strong\u003e appointed him \u003cstrong\u003eKnight of the Order of the Garter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eGeneral of the English Army\u003c\/strong\u003e, strengthening his ties to the British royal family. His refusal to reconcile with the House of Hohenzollern kept political tensions alive until 1913, when his son \u003cstrong\u003eErnst August (III)\u003c\/strong\u003e married \u003cstrong\u003ePrincess Viktoria Luise\u003c\/strong\u003e, daughter of \u003cstrong\u003eEmperor Wilhelm II\u003c\/strong\u003e. Ernst August (II) then renounced his claims to the Duchy of Brunswick in favour of his son.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eProvenance\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSotheby’s – “The Royal House of Hanover”\u003c\/strong\u003e, Marienburg Castle, 29 September – 8 October 2005.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA museum‑worthy garment of exceptional rarity, ideal for collectors of \u003cstrong\u003eroyal memorabilia\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eEuropean aristocratic uniforms\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e19th‑century military history\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55380027933059,"sku":"","price":2250.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/antiker_Interimsrock_General_Ernst_August_von_Hannover_1910.jpg?v=1745235296"},{"product_id":"signed-photo-of-queen-mother-elizabeth-queen-mum","title":"Signed Photo of Queen Mother Elizabeth, Queen Mum, 1962","description":"\u003cp\u003eGift frame from Queen Elizabeth of England, Queen Mum. Signed photograph of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElizabeth Bowes-Lyon married Albert, Duke of York in 1923, who unexpectedly became King George VI following the abdication of his brother Edward in 1936. Elizabeth was the royal consort during his lifetime, and when her daughter was crowned Queen Elizabeth II, she became known as the Queen Mother. Here the “Queen Mum” poses in all her royal splendor. She signs her name: 'Elizabeth R. \/ 1962' on the passe-partout surrounding the photograph, which is in an official royal leather frame with the royal insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed to an overall size of approx. 32 x 22 cm.  Overall in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55505413865859,"sku":"","price":1790.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/08-queen-mum-england.jpg?v=1746279320"},{"product_id":"gift-frame-kaiser-franz-josef-austria-ca-1897","title":"Gift Frame, Kaiser Franz Josef, Austria, ca. 1897","description":"\u003cp\u003eGift frame from the Austrian imperial family. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigh-quality frame with the imperial crown (confirmed by the Dorotheum expert). The frame could be made of silver, or just silver-plated (we have not found a hallmark; but not all silver items were hallmarked in this period). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrame dimensions: ~ 40 x 29.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe frame contains an original cabinet card (special size) with Emperor Franz Josef of Austria. The photograph comes from the studio of Carl Pietzner (* April 9, 1853 in Wriezen, Prussia; † November 25, 1927 in Vienna-Penzing). He was an Austrian photographer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions cabinet card: ~ 13 x 20 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55505462100355,"sku":"","price":1190.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/01-Geschenkrahmen-Kaiser-Franz-Josef.jpg?v=1746280226"},{"product_id":"tunic-from-the-vestments-of-the-order-of-st-george-1896","title":"Tunic from the Vestments of the Order of St. George, 1896","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Arial',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #222222; background: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eKlemens Wenzeslaus Franz Blasius Freiherr von Thünefeld - a tunic from the vestments of the Order of St. George, 1896. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Arial',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #222222; background: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eWhite silk with floral silver and sequin embroidery on the button placket, hem and cuffs, the silk buttons embellished with silver bullion, lined in white silk. Included a coloured photograph of the baron wearing the vestments. Good condition with a few stains. Very rare.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Arial',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #222222; background: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eThe Order of the House Knights of St. George (short: Order of St. George) was probably the best known of all 13 knightly orders named after St. George. It still exists today as the House Order of the House of Wittelsbach. The order was founded during the Crusades in the 12th century. In 1494, it was renewed by the Roman-German King Maximilian I, after it had fallen again, restored by Elector Karl Albrecht, later Emperor Karl VII, on April 24, 1729 and confirmed by Pope Benedict XIII. The Pope granted it all the privileges of the Teutonic Order, and the knights had to pledge themselves in their vow to defend the Immaculate Conception of Mary. After the extinction of the Bavarian electoral line in 1778, the Order was recognized by Elector Karl Theodor as the Palatinate-Bavarian Order. Maximilian I Joseph elevated the Order of St. George to Bavaria's second order and King Ludwig I provided it with comprehensive statutes on February 25, 1827. Finally, on 17 April 1871, under King Ludwig II, the Order was reorganized in the spirit of its time by replacing the “defence of the Christian Catholic faith” with the practice of works of mercy as the purpose of the Order (source: Wikipedia).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55516186378627,"sku":"","price":1900.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/antique_jacket_order_of_Saint_Georg_1896.jpg?v=1746993114"},{"product_id":"two-buttons-ca-1880","title":"Two Buttons, ca. 1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eTwo bone buttons, ca. 1880, origin: Europe. Monogram and aristocratic crown. Probably made for men's clothing. Very well preserved.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiameter: ~ 3 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55549878174083,"sku":"","price":80.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/antique-buttons-1880.jpg?v=1746990489"},{"product_id":"courtly-rococo-portrait-of-a-viennese-couple-ca-1760-austrian-18th-century-aristocratic-painting","title":"Courtly Rococo Portrait of a Viennese Couple, ca. 1760 – Austrian 18th‑Century Aristocratic Painting","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCourtly Rococo Portraits of an Aristocratic Couple, Vienna, 18th Century — attributed to Johann Michael Militz (1725–1779)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese two refined 18th‑century portraits depict an \u003cstrong\u003earistocratic couple\u003c\/strong\u003e dressed in \u003cstrong\u003ecourtly Rococo fashion\u003c\/strong\u003e, the type of luxurious attire worn at the \u003cstrong\u003eViennese court\u003c\/strong\u003e. As specialists in historical dress, we can confirm that such \u003cstrong\u003ehigh‑status garments\u003c\/strong\u003e were reserved for members of the \u003cstrong\u003enobility\u003c\/strong\u003e, indicating that this was a \u003cstrong\u003eprominent couple of significant rank\u003c\/strong\u003e. Their exact identities have unfortunately been lost to time, yet their elegant presence and the quality of execution speak unmistakably of noble heritage. The paintings remained in our private collection for many years and are now ready to find a new home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003efemale portrait\u003c\/strong\u003e shows a young noblewoman wearing an \u003cstrong\u003eelaborately embroidered turquoise silk gown\u003c\/strong\u003e, enriched with \u003cstrong\u003efine lace\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003efur trimming\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003epearl jewellery\u003c\/strong\u003e. The artist captures the shimmering textures and delicate details typical of \u003cstrong\u003eRococo court dress\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cem\u003eOil on canvas, 55 × 45.5 cm, unsigned, unframed.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003emale portrait\u003c\/strong\u003e presents a young aristocrat in \u003cstrong\u003egleaming cuirass armour\u003c\/strong\u003e, featuring a \u003cstrong\u003edecorated shoulder section\u003c\/strong\u003e, a \u003cstrong\u003egolden undergarment\u003c\/strong\u003e with \u003cstrong\u003elace cuff\u003c\/strong\u003e, pale blue sleeve accents, and \u003cstrong\u003esilver brocade embroidery\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cem\u003eOil on canvas, 56 × 45 cm, unsigned, unframed.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe stylistic features correspond to the work of the Austrian Old Master \u003cstrong\u003eJohann Michael Militz (1725–1779)\u003c\/strong\u003e, to whom the painting is attributed. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlthough \u003cstrong\u003elittle is known about his life\u003c\/strong\u003e, Johann Michael Militz was clearly a \u003cstrong\u003eViennese portrait specialist\u003c\/strong\u003e trained in the \u003cstrong\u003eMeytens school\u003c\/strong\u003e, active among the \u003cstrong\u003eAustrian nobility\u003c\/strong\u003e and producing works significant enough to be engraved and circulated. His surviving oeuvre suggests a painter skilled in \u003cstrong\u003earistocratic portraiture\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003emilitary subjects\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003ecourtly representation\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTogether, these works form a rare pair of \u003cstrong\u003e18th‑century Austrian Rococo portraits\u003c\/strong\u003e, ideal for collectors of \u003cstrong\u003ecourtly art\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003earistocratic family paintings\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003eViennese cultural history\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ANTIQUE GOWN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58172144812419,"sku":null,"price":8500.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/05-antique-rococo-aristocratic-oil-portrait-1770.jpg?v=1780423895"},{"product_id":"antique-victorin-bonnet-potsdam-ca-1880","title":"Antique Royal German Bonnet, Potsdam, ca. 1880","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBonnets with a clear connection to Germany have become increasingly rare, and this example is particularly noteworthy. It originates from \u003cstrong\u003ePotsdam\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the most important secondary residences of the \u003cstrong\u003ePrussian royal family\u003c\/strong\u003e and later the \u003cstrong\u003eGerman Imperial Household\u003c\/strong\u003e. Even rarer are pieces that, according to tradition, come from the \u003cstrong\u003eimperial court environment\u003c\/strong\u003e. This bonnet is said to have belonged to a \u003cstrong\u003elady‑in‑waiting of Empress Augusta of Saxe‑Weimar‑Eisenach\u003c\/strong\u003e, the consort of \u003cstrong\u003eEmperor Wilhelm I\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAround \u003cstrong\u003e1880\u003c\/strong\u003e, Wilhelm I resided frequently in Potsdam, which served as his preferred place of stay and a central stage of late 19th‑century Prussian court life.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe bonnet is made of \u003cstrong\u003ecrêpe de Chine\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a \u003cstrong\u003epaper‑printed maker’s label\u003c\/strong\u003e on the inside and a \u003cstrong\u003echin strap with a large bow\u003c\/strong\u003e. For its age, it is preserved in \u003cstrong\u003every good condition\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it a rare and desirable example of \u003cstrong\u003eroyal‑associated German millinery\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antique Gown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58292185694595,"sku":null,"price":310.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/files\/19-antique-bonnet-Potsdam-1880s.jpg?v=1781893715"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/1897\/6899\/collections\/P4260452.jpg?v=1747549191","url":"https:\/\/www.antique-gown.com\/collections\/aristocracy.oembed","provider":"ANTIQUE GOWN","version":"1.0","type":"link"}