Featured on PDR in the collection Radical Fashion from the Schembart Carnival (1590)

Illustrations from a 16th-century manuscript detailing the phenomenon of Nuremberg's Schembart Carnival, (literally "bearded-mask" carnival). Beginning in 1449, the event was popular throughout the 15th century but was ended in 1539 due to the complaints of an influential preacher named Osiander who objected to his effigy being paraded on a float, depicting him playing backgammon surrounded by fools and devils. According to legend, the carnival had its roots in a dance (a "Zämertanz") which the butchers of Nuremberg were given permission to hold by the Emperor as a reward for their loyalty amid a trade guild rebellion. Over the years the event took on a more subversive tone, evolving to let others take part with elaborate costumes displayed and large ships on runners, known as…

Date

1590

From

Schembartbuch aus dem Besitz des Sebastian Schedel, UB of California Coll. 170 Ms 351


Underlying Rights

Public Domain Worldwide

Digital Rights

No Additional Rights


Image Size

396 x 620 Higher res available?

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