Description

The first full history of an extraordinary eighteenth-century British entertainment

Glittering masquerades, held at the most fashionable London venues, dominated the calendars of the Georgian elite. A thrilling opportunity to gather, flirt, and consume, hosts such as “Empress of Pleasure” Teresa Cornelys welcomed the great and the good in elaborate costumes-including bear suits, harlequin outfits, or, in the case of Elizabeth Chudleigh, very little at all. The masquerade was a place of make-believe and revelry, and a party like no other.

Meghan Kobza invites us into these dazzling gatherings, and shows how they became a wider cultural obsession. Organised by wealthy impresarios, the masquerade allowed the aristocracy to flaunt their status and enjoy themselves behind the closed doors of opulent ballrooms, theatres, and gardens, dressed by an industry of ever more inventive habit makers. For the rest of society, the masquerade was notorious for mischief and misbehaviour, and a focus for voracious gossip.

Lavishly illustrated, full of life and originality, The Masquerade is a revelatory account of an event which captivates us to this day.

Publisher Review

"Kobza deploys a multitude of sources to draw out the gossip and scandal that fed off these spectacular parties."-Kate Chilsholm, Spectator "An excellent, highly original book using a fascinating range of sources. Kobza brings the masquerade vividly to life, in all its style and splendour."-Hilary Davidson, author of A Guide to Regency Dress "Genuine Georgian glitz, plus genuine controversies, and genuine hard work behind the scenes-all here explored with admirable empathy and authority. Read on to learn and to enjoy."-Penelope J. Corfield, author of The Georgians "A dazzling look-behind the scenes, in opera houses and public gardens-at the Georgian masquerade, where royalty and others assumed masks, embellished cloaks and anonymity. Prodigious research, and a fluent narrative. Meg Kobza is a historian to watch."-Flora Fraser, author of Pretty Young Rebel "Kobza's The Masquerade invites readers straight into the glittering, scandal-streaked heart of one of the eighteenth century's most extravagant nights out. Between these covers lies a dazzling blend of cultural insight, social intrigue and sheer theatrical fun-don your gladrags and grab your mask, you're in for a thrilling time!"-Anthony Delaney, author of Queer Georgians "In this lively account of the masquerade, Kobza unmasks the mysteries of the costumes, guests, entrepreneurs, venues and critics who shaped this distinctive form of eighteenth-century entertainment."-Hannah Greig, author of The Beau Monde