A Tournament Contest (detail), about 1560–1570, Unknown maker. Tempera colors and gold and silver paint. Getty Museum, Ms. Ludwig XV 14 (83.MR.184), fol. 35v
Festivals of War and Peace: The Evolution of Jousts and Tournaments
ONLINE ONLY
This is a past event
The Age of Chivalry in Europe (c. 1100–1600) was a time of almost constant warfare, but also of fabulous celebrations and courtly festivals. In tournaments, the grandest of all spectacles, the most powerful noblemen of the time displayed their personal fighting and riding skills whilst clad in the richest armor ever created. Exploring the Getty manuscript known as the "Augsburg Tournament Armor Album," historian Tobias Capwell discusses its text and images as a gateway into the extraordinary history of these fascinating events.
Following the program, on-site attendees can experience the demonstration Artist-at-Work: Medieval Sword Play at the Getty Center from 11:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Tobias Capwell, Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries (FSA), is a historian, author and curator. He is a leading expert on medieval and Renaissance arms and armor and also a founding member of the modern competitive jousting community. He is the author of numerous books including, most recently, Arms and Armor of the Renaissance Joust (2021) and the three-volume Armour of the English Knight (2015, 2021, 2022).