Information AboutRetinue |
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EMPLOYMENT Such retainers were not necessarily in the domestic service or otherwise normally close to the presence of their lord, but also include others who wore his " Livery " (a kind of uniform, in distinctive colours) and claimed his protection, such as musicians and private teachers. Some were a source of trouble and abuse in the 15th and early 16th century (see Maintenance ). Often their real importance was very different from their rank: on the one hand sinecures and supernumerary appointments allowed enjoying benefits without performing full service, on the other hand 'having the ear' of the master can allow to act as a confident in an informal capacity, in some cases even as a spy in such at first sight innicent fnctions as musician. CONTRAST A Retinue is sometimes confused with an Entourage , which is the far less stable body of people that followed whether or not they were -or claimed to be- retained or protected by the prominent person they served. For example a Prince's entourage would not only include professonial Courtier s, but also various bishops, clerics and other clerks, senior members of the aristocracy and other more occasional advisers, translators etcetera, who would often not be part of a Sovereign's (more permanent) retinue, even though that could comprise a surprising variety of functions, from menial to lofty. SEE ALSO
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