Masques Collection

Commedia dell arte Characters
Four Characters from Commedia dell arte, an improvised kind of popular comedy in Italian theatres in the 16th18th centuries, based on stock characters

Il Capitano Spavento costume, 19th century (engraving)
3768179 Il Capitano Spavento costume, 19th century (engraving) by Sand, Maurice (1823-1889); (add.info.: Il Capitano Spavento costume, 1577-drawn by Maurice Sand, Published in 1860)

A Star Masquer (w / c on paper)
CTS407539 A Star Masquer (w/c on paper) by Jones, Inigo (1573-1652); 31.5x17.7 cm; eThe Devonshire Collections, Chatsworth; Reproduced by permission of Chatsworth Settlement Trustees; English

The Masque of Queens, scene 2: the House of Fame, c. 1609 (pen & ink on paper)
CTS407506 The Masque of Queens, scene 2: the House of Fame, c.1609 (pen & ink on paper) by Jones, Inigo (1573-1652); eThe Devonshire Collections

A throne (pen & ink on paper)
CTS407505 A throne (pen & ink on paper) by Jones, Inigo (1573-1652); eThe Devonshire Collections, Chatsworth; Reproduced by permission of Chatsworth Settlement Trustees; English, out of copyright

The account of Inigo Jones for work done at the Lord Treasurer s
CTS407504 The account of Inigo Jones for work done at the Lord Treasurer s, 1608 (pen & ink on paper) by Jones, Inigo (1573-1652); eThe Devonshire Collections

The Masque of Queens and a dedicatory epistle to Henry, Prince of Wales
KDC441069 The Masque of Queens and a dedicatory epistle to Henry, Prince of Wales, 1609 (pen & ink on paper) by Jonson, Ben (c.1572-1637); Private Collection; (add.info)

Art Workers Guild Masque, 1917 (w / c on paper)
5845954 Art Workers Guild Masque, 1917 (w/c on paper) by Wilson, Henry (1864-1934); The Art Workers Guild Trustees Limited, London

Regine Flory in The Passing Show
Regine Flory (1894-1926), French actress and singer, pictured in an exquisite costume as the La Marchande de Masques in The Passing Show

Mask with two lobster claws that snakes, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris (II), Hans Liefrinck (I), 1555

Mask in profile with two horns, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris II, Hans Liefrinck II, 1555

Mask with sagging cheeks, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris (II), Hans Liefrinck (I), 1555

Mask with wings instead of ears and a headdress in the shape of a shell, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris II, Hans Liefrinck I, 1555

Mask with two snakes that look out of the eye sockets, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris (II), Hans Liefrinck (I), 1555

Mask with shell-shaped eyes and a shell between fruit bunches on the forehead, Frans Huys, Cornelis Floris (II), Hans Liefrinck (I), 1555

La Ba?onnette. Tous les jeudis. Bas les masques?... Vi
La Baionnette. Tous les jeudis. Bas les masques?... Viola!. A skeleton wearing a German military uniform and holding a mask of Kaiser Wilhelms head

The Plantagenet Ball at Buckingham Palace
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert with assembled guests at the Plantagenet Ball, also called the Bal Masque, at Buckingham Palace in May 1842. All the guests wore costume

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"Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Masques: From Commedia dell'arte Characters to Intricate Costumes and Artistic Expressions" Step into a world where hidden identities reign supreme, as we delve into the captivating realm of masques. Originating from the vibrant Commedia dell'arte tradition, these characters brought laughter and intrigue to the stage. With their exaggerated features and colorful costumes, they enchanted audiences with their comedic antics. One such character that stands out is Il Capitano Spavento, whose costume from the 19th century is etched in an engraving. This larger-than-life figure exuded bravado and boasted tales of heroic conquests while donning a flamboyant attire that commanded attention. But they were not limited to theatrical performances alone; they transcended boundaries into other art forms. A stunning watercolor on paper titled "A Star Masquer" captures the essence of mystery and allure associated with these enigmatic figures. The delicate brushstrokes bring forth a sense of elegance as if whispering secrets only known by those who wear masks. In literature, masques found their place too. In scene 2 of "The Masque of Queens: The House of Fame, " depicted through pen & ink on paper, we witness a grand spectacle unfolding before our eyes. A majestic throne takes center stage, symbolizing power and authority amidst this extravagant gathering. Renowned architect Inigo Jones played a pivotal role in shaping masque culture during his time. His account for work done at Lord Treasurer's reveals his meticulous craftsmanship that transformed mere sets into ethereal realms where imagination ran wild. It also served as tributes to royalty like Henry, Prince of Wales. "The Masque of Queens" featured a dedicatory epistle honoring his highness while showcasing artistic prowess through elaborate performances. Even in modern times, masques continue to captivate us with their allure.