Masque

The masque was a form of festive courtly entertainment which flourished in 16th and early 17th century Europe, though it was developed earlier in Italy. (A public version of the masque was the pageant.) Masque involved music and dancing, singing and acting, within an elaborate stage design, in which the architectural framing and costumes might be designed by a renowned architect, to present a deferential allegory flattering to the patron. Sometimes the masquers were courtiers: the Queen's ladies performed the masque of Florimène at the court of Charles I in 1642. Othertimes, professionals were joined by amateurs in a final dance. In the tradition of masque, Louis XIV danced in ballets at Versailles with music by Lully.

Other uses

The word masque is sometimes also used to mean a masquerade ball.

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Masque was also the name used by the Canadian progressive rock band CANO on their 1981 album Camouflage.

Related Topics:
Canadian - Progressive rock - CANO - 1981

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