ARLECCHINO (Harlequin, Arlechino, Arlequin)

Harlequin (year 1858)

Maurice Sand: Arlechino (year 1858)

Who does not know this mask, with his patched outfit and witty tongue? The first Harlequin we hear of is Alberto Naselli, from Bergamo, in 1572.

Harlequin, a poor character, wearing a colorful patched costume, the patches probably remnants of richer costumes.

Harlequin's expression

From a primitive naïve and simple character, he evolves into a smart, more sophisticated one, that with his simplicity outwits all the arrogant and greedy personages with whom he interacts.

Anarchic kind of behavior, always hungry and with no money, in modern times he could have been a hippie.

The evolution of the character went on until the 18th century, when it became too sophisticated, no more wit, the hunger and fantasy gone.

And the Commedia dell'Arte is going towards its end.

Harlequin's Primitive Mask

Another Harlequin's primitive mask, made of wood. This would be the most known mask for a couple centuries, and serve as model for a more sophisticated masks made in leather, typical of the late Harlequin's impersonations.

Harlequin (year 1671)

Maurice Sand: Arlechino
(year 1671)

Harlequin's 17th century mask

Primitive mask of Harlequin.
It brings a strong resemblance with the "omo salvadego" impersonation.
Mainly used in the late 17th century, It was later replaced by a more sophisticated and "less savage" one.