Two sheets (printed as one) with verses in Valencian for masquerades

Art Historical Context

This intriguing print, created by Julian Mariana around 1860–70, combines wood engraving with letterpress to present two sheets of verses in Valencian for use in masquerades. Measuring just over 12 by 17 inches, the work features lively illustrations of men and women in costume, reflecting the festive spirit of popular entertainments in 19th-century Spain. Produced as an accessible printed sheet, it likely served as both a practical guide for performers and a souvenir of local celebrations. The medium highlights the era’s advancements in printmaking, where wood engraving allowed for fine, detailed imagery alongside clear text—ideal for distributing poetry and songs to a broad audience. In Valencia, masquerades were vibrant community events blending theater, music, and social satire, and this piece captures that lively tradition through its dual format and regional language. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through the Max G. Wildnauer Fund in 1978, the print offers a charming glimpse into everyday cultural life. Its depictions of costumed figures underscore the universal appeal of disguise and performance, inviting viewers to imagine the music and merriment these verses once accompanied.