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Preparing for a masked ball, 1800s
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Preparing for a masked ball, 1800s
Preparations for a masquerade. We no longer see harlequins and pierrots at masked balls, but instead costumes of Switzerland and Normandy. Even in coarse fabrics and peasant bonnets, the ladies take pains to add diamond crosses or other jewels to distinguish themselves. Handcoloured engraving from Pierre de la Mesangeres Le Bon Genre, Paris, 1817. Preparations for a masquerade. We no longer see harlequins and pierrots at masked balls, but instead costumes of Switzerland and Normandy. Even in coarse fabrics and peasant bonnets, the ladies take pains to add diamond crosses or other jewels to distinguish themselves. Handcoloured engraving from Pierre de la Mesangeres Le Bon Genre, Paris, 1817
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Media ID 23194782
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Ball Fancy Genre Lifestyle Mask Masked Masquerade Mesangere Napoleonic Peasant Pierre Regency Regional Revolutionary Satirical
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Preparing for a Masked Ball, 1800s: A Handcoloured Engraving from Pierre de la Mesangere's 'Le Bon Genre' This handcoloured engraving, titled 'Preparations for a Masquerade,' offers a glimpse into the elaborate world of masked balls during the early 19th century. The image, created by Pierre de la Mesangere for his publication 'Le Bon Genre' in Paris, 1817, showcases the meticulous preparations and diverse costumes that were synonymous with these mysterious and entertaining events. Masked balls were a popular form of entertainment during the Regency, Empire, and Napoleonic eras. While the tradition of wearing harlequin and Pierrot costumes had waned, attendees instead donned regional garb from Switzerland and Normandy. Even in coarse fabrics and peasant bonnets, the ladies took great care to add diamond crosses, other jewels, and intricate details to distinguish themselves from one another. In this engraving, we see a soldier, likely preparing to attend the masquerade, adjusting his mask while a lady, dressed in a Swiss costume, adds finishing touches to her attire. The soldier's uniform suggests a revolutionary or Napoleonic influence, highlighting the diverse mix of attendees that would gather for these masquerades. This satirical and fashionable image offers a unique perspective on the lifestyle and entertainment of the time, showcasing the continued allure and mystery of masked balls during the 1800s.
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