Wide view of Venice: Piazza San Marco - Riva degli Schiavoni

HARLEQUIN's mask

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

So the evolution - and decadence - is well marked by the changes in its mask, his stage "persona", which goes from an almost savage and Zanni-like appearance to the witty and ironic guy we mostly remember.

is character was definitely a success as changes in the Italian Comedy were surely determined by the public's acceptance of gags and characters, and due to the partially improvised script, changed from day to day, I speculate.

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 dark mask
Harlequin dark primitive mask:'homo salvadego
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.
Harlequin dark primitive mask
Another Harlequin's primitive mask, made of wood. This would be the most known mask for a couple centuries, and was used as model for more sophisticated masks made in leather, typical of the late Harlequin's impersonations.
Harlequin reddish brown leather mask
A more modern and widely known mask that Harlequin wears on stage. Usually made of leather, like most of the other Commedia Masks, still holds the features of the older ones including the bump on the head.

Copyright by Roberto Delpiano 1997-2022 - visit my website www.delpiano.com