German school 17th/18th century
TWELVE WORKS: COSTUMED MEN AND FLOATS (from a Schembart Book)
watercolors on paper, unframed
page size: H12 3/4" W8" (12pcs)

Other Notes: Schembart books or Schempart books were printed to commemorate the riotous Schembart carnival parade held in Nuremburg from 1449-1530. These parades featured extravagantly costumed runners who wore bells and carried lances and bundles of leaves (lebensrute) that often concealed fireworks. The parades also featured floats with actors who poked fun at politicians and religious leaders. The carnival was eventually put to an end amidst the growing influence of the Reformation.