Around the time of the First Crusade in 1095, a literary tradition emerged in France that has become known by the name Courtly Love. The traditions and ideals became more prominent in England from 1152 after Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II. Courtly love is closely tied to notions of chivalry and knighthood and is represented in many medieval artefacts as well as in paintings, music and literature.
A citole or medieval equivalent of a guitar
An instrument closely associated with courtly love. See the British Library link in For the classroom to see a citole in use.
See more See more: https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/asset/citole/zAElD70X23l7fwFrench enamel casket
Showing scenes of combat, music, dance and courtly love.
See more See more: https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/asset/casket-with-troubadours/CQHrLkb5OJpU6AIvory mirror case
An ivory mirror case showing a scene of courtly love as a young man and woman hunt together with a falcon.
See more See more: https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/asset/ivory-mirror-back-with-hawking-scene/7gGWezum5haDFAThe Dunstable Swan jewel
A sign of a family’s descent from the Swan Knight, the mysterious hero of a romantic tale of courtly love.
See more See more: https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/asset/the-dunstable-swan-jewel/HAG8aNN2_1XdxQA decorative shield
Showing a scene of courtly love, featuring a knight, a lady and the figure of death.
See more See more: https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/asset/shield-of-parade/9gHIWdqqbwx0hAThe lid of an ivory casket
Showing a joust and an assault on the Castle of Love.
See more See more: http://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details/collection_image_gallery.aspx?partid=1&assetid=20430&objectid=48409