The plate is taken from Shaw's 1843 book, "Costumes and Decorations of the Middle Ages." On the verso of the engraving is the image's page of text from the book, preserved in a plastic sleeve. The text relates the fascinating story of the subject of this piece, which involves hairy costumes contrived for a party following a wedding, which were adhered to the actors with pitch and rosin. Someone set fire to the very flammable costumes, causing an immediate blaze killing three of the actors and injuring others. Charles VI, was one of those in this costume, but was saved by the cover of a lady's gown (center back). Others doused themselves in the trough of water, center, to save themselves.

The newly matted image measures about 6-3/8" x 8", framed to 9-1/2" x 11-1/2" x 3/4" in wood. The name of the engraver, "H. Shaw" has been covered by the mat, but is pictured above prior to framing, and in closeup; we guarantee the name is present under the mat. Visible verbiage reads, "Date the latter part of the 15th Century;" and "Masque of Charles VI. of France."

$14 US Shipping.