A harlequin is a grotesque subject that resembles a jester.
In Old French, Hellequin was the name given to a devil . This term passed into Italian as arlecchino , and then into our language as harlequin .
To understand what a harlequin is, we must first refer to the comedy of art , a theatrical modality that emerged in Italy in the middle of the 16th century . In this genre , Harlequin is a character who uses a mask and wears a colorful costume with diamonds. Together with Colombina and Brighella , he makes up the group of servants.
By extension to the personality of this character, the grotesque subject, with the air of a jester , is known as a harlequin. That person who tends to be ridiculous and who avoids formalities can be considered a harlequin.
Harlequin Appearance
The typical harlequin costume derives from the rags of a beggar . From scraps of different clothes, the original colorful costume of a harlequin was developed. Over the years, the harlequin costume became composed of brightly colored rhombuses, with a predominance of green and red.
As for the harlequin mask , it is a combination of the facial features of a monkey and a cat. That is why the nose of the traditional harlequin is flattened and the eyes are rounded.
Harlequin is a character from the comedy of art.
A painting by Picasso
In the world of art we find different representations of this figure that concerns us. However, among the best known worldwide is the painting titled “Harlequín” that the brilliant painter from Malaga Pablo Picasso created and presented in 1917.
It is an oil painting that he gave to the city of Barcelona in 1919 and that can currently be admired in the Picasso Museum of the aforementioned Catalan city.
No less important is that the harlequin is a figure that becomes a key piece of part of that artist's professional career. Specifically, it is established that he is the protagonist of his so-called pink stage, since he uses it not only to represent himself but also to make clear the criticism he makes of the society of the moment.
Dali's Harlequin
In the same way, we cannot ignore that another of the greatest Spanish artists also painted this character at hand. Specifically, it was Salvador Dalí who in 1926 presented a four piece titled “Arlequí” ( “Harlequín” ).
It is an oil painting on canvas in which the aforementioned genius makes clear his interest and passion for cubism. It is perhaps not one of his best-known works, but it has undeniable value since it shows his quality and know-how. Currently, this painting is part of the collection of the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid.
A rare disease
Harlequin ichthyosis , finally, is a rare disease that affects the skin.
When a child is born with this disease, their appearance resembles the harlequin costume due to the scales that cover almost their entire body.