Model Number: S 126
Modeled c.1899 by Emmerich Andresen after a drawing by Maurice Sand, 1860.
Commedia dell’arte is a theatrical form characterized by improvised dialogue and a cast of colorful stock characters that emerged in northern Italy in the fifteenth century and rapidly gained popularity throughout Europe. Each character of the commedia evolved a distinct set of attributes—characteristic speech, gestures, props, and costume that became standard to the portrayal of the character.
Mezzetino is an adept schemer and trouble-maker, willing to commit acts of violence if necessary. He is often very musically inclined, and can sing and dance with skill. His character can vary greatly: he can be a loyal servant or simply scheming for his master’s downfall; he can be a deceitful husband or be deceived by his wife.
His costume is a tunic and breeches, with stripes, either red or burgundy. He is sometimes played without a mask, especially in later versions. He almost always wears a short cape, called a tabaro, which has its origins in the plays of ancient Rome.
In one French play, Mezzetin attempts to flirt with the innamorata Isabelle. He tells her how in 6 years of marriage, he and his first wife never had one fight until she tried to stop him from sneezing, for which act he murdered her. When Isabelle tries to send him away by pointing out that she is herself already married, he points out that so is he, and that “five sous’ worth of rat poison will do the trick” to solve that.