The tradition of the Venetian carnival or ball began in the 11th century
and reached its peak of popularity and outrageousness in the 18th century.
The Venetians' gift for intrigue comes into its own during the Carnival,
a vibrant, playful festival preceding the abstinence of Lent. Masks
and costume play a key role in this anonymous world when social divisions
dissolve. Carnivals in the 18th century began with a series of balls in
the Piazza San Marco with masqued, costumed dancers. The Venetians loved
dancing and danced even in the courtyards of convents, albeit permitted
only until
sunset.
Many masques, and the characters they represent, are deeply rooted in Venetian history. Some more recognizable than others, each character can be interpreted in a style that is unique to its maker, making each piece a true work of art.
The Dance Card
Dance cards have been a part of Viennese culture for more than a hundred
years. Today, especially in Vienna, they have come to represent the party
favor or dance card that a lady used to record who she would dance with
at a ball. The dance card, no matter when it was made generally consisted
of a decorative case which opened to reveal a "book" that listed the various
dance titles and composers with a blank line which would be filled in with
the name of the person with which the lady intended to dance. Listed in
the card could be from 10 and up to 20 or more dance titles. Attached somewhere
to the case was a pencil with which to write a name. A decorative cord
was attached to the case so that the entirety could be attached to the
lady's ball gown. Dance cards served two purposes: To be used at
the dance to list in order, the dances of the evening and to be kept as
a memento of the Ball.
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