NIGHTBRINGER | The Arthurian Encyclopedia

Elaine of Astolat’s Sleeve


In the tournament at WinchesterLancelot wore the token of Elaine of Astolat, a scarlet sleeve embroidered with pearls. Lancelot did this to insure his incognito status, since he was well known never to have worn anybody’s token before.

Elaine might have broken her heart for love to him even had he refused to accept her token; of course, it caused Guenevere much pain, anger, and jealousy when she learned of it.