The Field of the Cloth of Gold

source: Library of Congress

Throughout history, artists and performers have often drawn inspiration from past events and people. Various art forms have been used to provide commentary and to romanticize or idealize history. Live performances, in particular, provide viewers a glimpse into the past and spark curiosity through dazzling “spectacles”, drama, and action. These spectacles have often been created to portray the lavishness of the rich and to create contrast from the lives of “ordinary” people. This interest in the “other” has been a common thread throughout time. 

In 1905, the Ringling Brothers Circus built a traveling show based on the historic spectacle called, “The Field of the Cloth of Gold”. This performance, by the same name, is said to have featured over 1200 actors, lavish costumes, animals, and portrayals of riches beyond measure. The show displayed the pageantry present during the meeting of King Henry VIII of England and King Francis I of France, in June of 1520 near Calais, France. This meeting between the two kings lasted about two weeks and was an opportunity for both to flaunt their immense wealth. 

On display at the Van Orden Mansion are pieces of a Jouster’s costume created for one of the Ringling Brothers’ performances, held at the Chicago Coliseum April 8-23, 1905. The costume includes a gold velvet Jouster’s cap with jewels, red velvet shield, and wood spear with painted metal tip. The gold velvet cap is decorated with costume jewels along the rim and large Fleur-de-lis on the sides. The shield is small and has a large image of a dragon on the front. These pieces, combined with the long spear and other costume details, would’ve made an impressive sight. 

The Jouster’s costume is on display as part of our current exhibit, Artists and Artisans, held at the Van Orden Mansion. This costume and other crafted items from Sauk County can be viewed during open hours, Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4. Every Saturday during the summer, local crafters will be onsite demonstrating their skills for the public. Please check out our website homepage for more information.