HANDMAIDENS: A Reintroduction

[Mady 3771]

 

 

 

 

A REINTRODUCTION OF LADIES IN WAITING

From the Royal Haeseni Court

c. 12th OF JOMA AND UMUND, 559 E.S.

 

 

 

ㅤㅤIn courts of yore, structured involvements of nobles and commoners alike have been implemented to create an engagement with the Crown. Over a century ago, Princess Royal Analiesa Josefina implemented a new structure to the courts, introduced as ‘Handmaidens’, also referred to as Ladies in Waiting. To pay homage to the efforts of historical courtly etiquette, we give our gratitude and pour our own efforts into the re-implementation of Handmaidens into the Haeseni Courts. 

[1] Handmaidens In Nobility. HSH Analiesa Josefina, 433 E.S.

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ㅤThe position of handmaiden is a privilege reserved exclusively for those of royal blood, specifically the Princesses of the realm and Her Majesty the Queen. To serve as a handmaiden under the crown is a highly coveted role, with rigorous expectations regarding conduct and public demeanor, particularly for those chosen to serve the Queen, who may have an unlimited number of handmaidens. Each Princess is entitled to three handmaidens, while the Princess Royal may have four. Serving under both the Queen and the Princess Royal is a prestigious honor, one that all noblewomen should aspire to attain.

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❖ Her Serene Highness, Princess Oliviya Lorina Barbanov-Bihar, The Princess Royal

❖ Her Royal Highness, Isabel Adryana Barbanov-Bihar

❖ Her Excellency, Milena Anastasija Barbanov-Bihar

❖ Her Royal Highness, Zofiya Dosiya Barbanov-Bihar

❖ Her Royal Highness, Stefaniya Edvarda Barbanov-Bihar

 

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ㅤAll women born into nobility are eligible to become handmaidens, though not those belonging to the Royal Family. For instance, while the Princesses of the Kingdom may choose any three noblewomen from the peerage to serve as their handmaidens, they themselves cannot hold this position.

Women outside the noble classes can also be chosen as handmaidens, but they must first have a royal or noble sponsor who vouches for their health, character, and dedication. Typically, those selected as handmaidens are individuals who, in the eyes of the lady, have already demonstrated reliability, trustworthiness, and good character. In cases where there are insufficient candidates within the peerage, handmaidens may be selected from outside the nobility.

 

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ㅤA handmaiden is expected to serve her lady with attentiveness and kindness, always ready to assist with a willing heart. Beyond offering help, she must be ready to listen, especially during difficult times. In essence, a handmaiden must embody loyalty in all her actions. Once appointed, this position is held for life, unless the handmaiden attains a higher rank than the lady she serves.

In addition to providing emotional support, handmaidens are also responsible for assisting their ladies with practical matters, such as dressing for courtly events, applying makeup, and adorning them with jewelry. They may also deliver messages and help select outfits. In all things, the handmaiden must be ready to fulfill any request from her royal patron.

 

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ㅤBeing chosen as a handmaiden to a member of royalty is a privilege in itself, but it also comes with various advantages and responsibilities. If a patron requires more frequent companionship and service, she may arrange appropriate living accommodations for the handmaiden. These living arrangements must reflect the handmaiden’s rank within the kingdom, ensuring they are suitable to her status in society. This arrangement allows the handmaiden to be more readily available to assist her patron, strengthening their bond and ensuring consistent, reliable service.

Serving a Princess or Queen elevates the handmaiden’s status within society. The honor of this position raises her reputation, and in many ways, she becomes an extension of her patron, representing her honor and dignity. If a handmaiden is insulted, the offense extends to the patron, which can lead to serious repercussions if the handmaiden holds a higher rank.

Being a handmaiden also brings social standing and the respect of others. In return for her service, the patron often supports the handmaiden in various aspects of life. This may include helping her find a suitable husband, advocating for her character, providing clothing, and offering recommendations for courtly appointments. The relationship between a handmaiden and her patron is one of mutual benefit, with both parties strengthening their connection over time.

A proper uniform is required for those who serve in this esteemed position. A lady chosen to tend to her patron is typically given a special dress or brooch to signify the honor of serving within the Royal Courts. The quality of the dress or brooch corresponds to the rank of the patron, though the decision of whether to provide such a symbol is at the patron’s discretion.

 

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ㅤA dismissal of a handmaiden is considered a scandal and a tarnish on the reputation of the lady involved. Loyalty, trust, and respect are the core values of the position, and any breach of these may lead the patron to dismiss the handmaiden.

As a reflection of their patron’s honor, any crime committed by the handmaiden is grounds for immediate dismissal. If the betrayal is severe, it is customary for the patron to publicly reveal the transgression to warn others of potential disloyalty, thus preventing future employment of the handmaiden by others.

 

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ㅤFor those who find interest in becoming a Lady in Waiting and Handmaiden to a Princess of the realm, you are encouraged to seek out the Grand Lady, Lady Mahaut van Leuven, along with the Royal maiden whom you wish to attend to. 

 

 

 

Her Serene Highness, Oliviya Lorina Barbanov-Bihar, 

Duchess of Greywyn & Karosgrad, The Princess Royal.

 

Lady Mahaut van Leuven, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska

and Crow Warden of the Royal Court.