Pantaloon (one of a pair) 1745 - 1757

This is one of a pair of porcelain figures of commedia dell’arte characters, made by the Capodimonte Porcelain Manufactory in the mid-18th century. The figure represents Pantaloon, a stock character known as the lecherous, aging merchant. Consider how the figure plays with stereotypes of masculinity and age. His hunched posture and mask hide his face, concealing his emotions. He appears to be caught in a moment of reflection, perhaps on his past or his desires. The knife at his waist hints at a capacity for violence that belies his comedic role. These figurines were originally made for wealthy patrons. What does it mean to turn working-class characters into decorative objects for the elite? In doing so, the artist invites us to reflect on issues of class, performance, and identity.