SCA scroll specifically requested by recipient to imitate German fencing manuals. Searching through options, settle on Maier. Benefit, allows for portrait work, although simpler dual figures than some other options. Choice made also for 2 page, page 1 being in English, Page 2 being in German. Translations made through generous Excellency Fredeberg von Katezenellenbogen. English verbiage provided by Master Po Silvertop.
Materials: Pergamenta, natural pigments, gall ink. Inspiration for manual illumination taken from Images of recipient. Hand taken from analysis of Maier manual. Several practice pages made, as hand unfamiliar. Overall, style has simplistic look, focus being reproduction of technique and manual appearance.
Verbiage in English: (inspired by a Period Marxbrüder Fencing Guild Lehrbrief (1682))
From Their Renowned Majesties Gareth and Juliana, Fourth of those Names- We do now proclaim and acknowledge herewith, for everyone’s pleasure whosoever reads what is apparent, or hears it, that today and hitherto, from the Authority and Privilege of the Sylvan Kingdom of Aethelmearc, present the honorable and manly Donnan MacDubhsidhe
, and who in the use of all elegant weapons for a more civilized age, as is usually seen here, from the longest to the shortest and from the shortest to the longest, having this day allowed him to be tested in how they are used in such earnest manner, whereupon he held out proficiently and with honor and honesty against his opponents upon traditional playing of the Prize, and those opponents now recognizing him as an Honorable Master of Defense, to which they all unanimously affirmed with a “yes”. Thereupon, because his good conduct has so contributed, We now raise him to the rank of Avowed Master of Defense, also to his Oath he is admonished to be faithful, and that he complies faithfully and honestly, to all the articles and laws as there are, at liberty to the Masters of the Sword, and these same never oppose or be in conflict with, much less permit another to rise up against, which he has avowed and sworn with a bodily Oath . May the above Master Donnan be allowed to pass and return, freely, safely and unhindered over land and water, because of Our Royal decree, in order that he may fulfill the duties and responsibilities pertaining to the Noble Sword. Having previously conspicuously served Crown, Kingdom and Society as Warlord and Champion, as Kingdom Rapier Marshal and as a Honored member of the Order of the White Scarf, and as a Peer of the Order of the Pelican, We are confident that his Prowess, Service and Courtiership will continue to shine like stained glass window, illuminating the path for the rapier community. Done by Our hand upon the occasion of the Donnan Party, this 30th day of March, AS 58 within The Shire of Kings Crossing.
Nikolai's Artwork 