Harlequin Unmasked: The Commedia Dell'Arte and Porcelain Sculpture

The commedia dell'arte began in Italy as irreverent, improvised street theatre and is best known for its exuberant characters -- Harlequin, Pantalone, Pulcinella, Scaramouche, and Columbine, among others. Since the sixteenth century, these personalities have inspired paintings, engravings, and porcelain sculptures. This splendidly illustrated and engaging book features works from important collections -- in particular, the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, which houses one of the finest collections of commedia dell'arte porcelain sculpture in the world. Encompassing theatre, court culture, masquerades, and the decorative arts, the book offers original perspectives on porcelain commedia figures while also making an important contribution to the study of the commedia dell'arte. The volume focuses on nearly 150 porcelain sculptures, representing more than twenty European ceramic manufacturers. The authors investigate the history of the commedia dell'arte's transformation into sculpture: Why were the figures made? Why do they appear as they do? What inspired their gestures and costumes? How did street theatre themes become integrated into court life and entertainment? Examining these delightful porcelain figures in greater breadth and detail than any publication ever has done before, this book is essential for those interested in theatre, painting, costume, and the decorative arts.