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Direct scan of object
Harlequin, Comedien Burlesque
Direct scan of object

Harlequin, Comedien Burlesque

Date1690-1700
Maker Nicolas Bonnart (ca. 1637 - 1718)
OriginEurope, France, Paris
MediumHand-colored etching with line engraving
DimensionsPlate: 6 1/2" X 5"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1930-448
DescriptionLower margin reads: "Tiré du Cabinet de M.r Chassebras de Cramailles./ Harlequin, Comedien Burlesque/ Vétu de pieces de diver ses couleurs, avec un masque tané, et une/ épée de bois. Il parle Bergamasque et s'apelle en Italie zani, et/ a venise Trufaldin, ou Trapolin./ N. Bonnart a l'Aigle avec privil."
Label TextThe figure of the Harlequin refers to the comic servant character from the Italian commedia dell'arte which became popular in the 16th century and appeared in England in the 17th century. The text translates to: "Dressed in pieces of various colors, with a tanned (leather) mask, and a wooden sword, He speaks Bergamesque and is called Zani in Italy and in Venice Trufaldin or Trapolin." Bergamesque is a a dialect spken in Bergamo in Lobardy, Italy.