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Masquerade at the French court, 1393, (1470-1475). Artist: Master of the Harley Froissart
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Masquerade at the French court, 1393, (1470-1475). Artist: Master of the Harley Froissart
Masquerade at the French court, (Dance of the Wodehouses), 1393, (1470-1475). Masquerade at the court of King Charles VI of France, accompanied by live music from musicians in the upper right corner. On the right are coats of arms with the fleur-de-lis, and stylised floral decoration. In 1393, Isabeau de Baviere organised a celebration of the marriage of one of her ladies-in-waiting. Her husband Charles VI and others dressed up as wild men in costumes of cloth soaked in resinous wax or pitch covered with hemp so that they appeared shaggy and hairy from head to foot. Despite a ban on torches in the room, the kings brother, Louis of Valois, approached with a lighted torch and one of the dancers caught fire, causing panic. The Duchesse de Berry hid the king under her dress and saved his life. Four of the others died. This incident became known as the Bal des Ardents (the Ball of the Burning Men ). Miniature colour print from The Chronicler of European Chivalry by GG Coulton, (London, 1930)
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Media ID 14908014
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Accident Ball Burning Charles Vi Flame Flames Froissart Incident Jean Jean Froissart King Charles Vi King Of France Master Of The Harley Froissart Print Collector2 Thespian
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This print captures a momentous event in French history - the Masquerade at the French court, 1393. Painted by the talented Master of the Harley Froissart, this artwork transports us back to a time of grandeur and revelry. In this scene, we witness King Charles VI of France and his courtiers engaging in an extravagant masquerade dance known as the Dance of the Wodehouses. The air is filled with live music from musicians positioned in the upper right corner, adding to the festive atmosphere. The artist pays attention to detail by including coats of arms adorned with fleur-de-lis symbols and intricate floral decorations on display. These elements symbolize royalty and elegance that were synonymous with French courts during this period. However, behind this facade lies a tragic incident that unfolded during this celebration. As Isabeau de Baviere organized a marriage celebration for one of her ladies-in-waiting, disaster struck when one dancer's costume caught fire due to a lighted torch brought into the room against regulations. Panic ensued as flames engulfed several participants. Amidst chaos and danger, it was Duchesse de Berry who heroically hid King Charles VI under her dress, saving his life while four others tragically perished. This infamous event became known as "the Ball of Burning Men" or Bal des Ardents. Preserved within these colors is not only an exquisite piece of art but also a glimpse into history - reminding us that even amidst opulence and merriment, tragedy can strike unexpectedly.
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