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Props Prop ideas for a prince?

Aug 16, 2022

    1. I'm looking for ideas for props for a prince character whose style is sort of a blend of historical and fantasy. I'm thinking things like a sword, throne, chalice, crown, but I'd love to hear your suggestions for any more! Especially if you have DIY ideas :D
       
    2. Historically in Britain and nearby countries, it was normal for palaces and castles to have rich lavish decor so things like tapestries, paintings, throws, cushions and rugs would all add to the scene (walls would have been painted too!). Though most weapons/ armour would be kept in the armoury so you wouldn't typically see suits of armour on display or a bunch of weapons on the wall as tends to be depicted in modern times. Wearing signs of wealth was also common so clothing and cloaks with exspensive lace or fur trim or jewellery such as rings are good props (ruby was most highly valued, followed by emerald).

      Royalty was also well known for 'rich' foods so tables with a feast of fancy food could be fun. Another normal thing that was expected of Royalty would be animals, horses for riding, dogs and birds of prey for hunting etc so that could be something to explore, i.e a hunting horn or personal banner to display when out riding.

      Heating was usually done through fireplaces so a big ole fireplace with a fancy mantle might make an interesting background. And if it fits the world/culture you want to create, then collecting expensive things of learning like books and maps was a big sign of wealth. If you wanted to go with more of an Asian feel then it was often expected for an Emperor to be highly educated and do 'thoughtful' pursuits such as Astrology or medicine which have plenty of prop potential!

      So there's quite a few things there depending on what kind of life style you want the character to enjoy :lol: If you're going for a medieval style setting then there is a series that's been added to YouTube called 'secrets of the castle' which is an interesting watch (if viewable in your country) and may help generate some ideas!
       
      #2 Epicari, Aug 16, 2022
      Last edited: Aug 16, 2022
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    3. Maybe like a golden chair? A royal crest logo signifying a royal family crest as a back drop behind the chair with dragons and lions theme decorations/ pottery around it. And maybe a handsome butler behind the prince’s chair…
       
      #3 RenaBJD, Aug 16, 2022
      Last edited: Aug 16, 2022
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    4. Fancy versions of just about anything could work. Maybe some really big and cool looking books? Before the printing press with movable types and the developement of cheap pulp paper, books were very valuable and a prince would likely be willing and able so spend a fair amount on his education. On the same theme things like book stands, writing desk, a supply of pens and ink and such would not look out of place either. Perhaps dress it up a bit, like a bejeweled inkwell?
      Maps over his kingdom would also be cool and a great place for worldbuilding.
      Another thing that sometimes have been done ridiculously fancy historically, is bead, spangle and jewel encrusted shoes and hats.

      And I second @RenaBJD on the crest. If there is any form of heraldy in his world, he should have one.
       
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    5. What is the scale of your prince?? Depends on his size you can easily find horses and many other props!

      move found miniature size plants at Target, window shaped mirrors and frames, Gothic arch frames at wall decore section at Hobby, window shaped sconces for 1/4 dolls at candle section, antique-ish silverware and tiny bottles at scrapbooking, miniature basket etc at wedding section. So much to find if you know where to look!

      As for scenario, how about prince revealing himself off of his disguise might be fun? Series of princely chores like practice squats fighting, riding, hunting, courtship for someone else etc might be fun too?
       
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    6. And if you haven’t yet, I also strongly recommend looking into antique salesman samples for furnitures. They are often detailed, aged naturally for visual depth, and often much cheaper than buying new antique-ish miniatures.
       
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    7. You could make an entire throne room XD

      A bit tricky, but does an armor count?
       
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    8. A fountain, every good castle must have one, I am sure. And a rose garden. A well to toss wishing coins into. A lavish bed with velvet draperies. Stuffed exotic animals from extravagant hunts. A feast table with stuffed peacock, fruits from all over the world and seven different cakes. Persian rugs, silk wall hangings, a room with murals on the walls. A library. A throne room. There is so much a prince surrounds himself with. As long as he lives in a castle that is, when going to hunt dragons, now that is another matter entirely... a horse, preferrably one that is both deaf and blind and has no sense of smell so as not to be frightened by the dragon, a sword, armour, tent, food that keeps well on the road, sturdy boots and lots and lots of courage... or maybe it is called foolishness.
       
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    9. And don't forget the Squire! One does not easily get into a suit of armour by oneself :lol:
       
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    10. This is a really thorough answer, thank you!
       
    11. Thank you both! I do like the idea of a crest :D
       
    12. He's 1/3, do you think I could find or make a horse at that scale? I'd love to try! Thanks for the suggestions, I'm definitely going to scavenge around a few craft shops to find extra decor.
       
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