Masquerade c. 1512 - 1515

"Masquerade" is an anonymous watercolor painting depicting a scene of masked revelers during a Renaissance-era masquerade. The artwork, created around 1512-1515, captures the festive atmosphere of a masked ball, with figures in elaborate costumes and feathered masks, their identities concealed by the anonymity of their attire. The scene is set against a backdrop of a grand hall, suggesting the opulence and grandeur of the occasion. The painting highlights the popularity of masquerade balls as a form of social entertainment and celebration during this period, emphasizing the importance of disguise and anonymity in fostering a sense of freedom and playfulness.