DONIZONE

DONIZONE DELIVERS HIS “VITA MATHILDIS” TO THE COUNTESS MATILDA – MINIATURE OF THE “VITA MATHILDIS” BY DONIZONE, DATABLE 1114 – VATICAN APOSTOLIC LIBRARY

The sovereigns’ garments are priceless.

The countess Matilda is famous because in 1077 Henry IV was humiliated by Gregory VII in her castle. Above the skirts with wide sleeves, typical of the late XI century fashion, she wears a purple violet mantle richly bordered with gold and gems, with the neckline opening over one shoulder in such a way as to cover the left arm and leave the other free.

At her wrist one may glimpse the tunic’s close-fitting sleeve.

The high conical pileus made of gold cloth is layed on the veil, the shoes are made of golden leather.