The Rococo Bon Ton

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine crossing the threshold of a splendid ballroom in the year 1750. Everyday life falls away. The soft light of the chandeliers, the gentle rustle of heavy silk and brocade, and the atmospheric tuning of the violins welcome you.

You are no longer merely a guest – you are part of this wonderful society. Step into our Le Bon Genre, where aesthetics, consideration, and historical lightness set the tone.

Let your gaze wander. Do you see over there? General von Seydlitz, impeccably attired in the elegant uniform of the Prussian cavalry, sword at his side. He is currently paying his respects to Countess Voß, who shines in a magnificent gown with whalebone and the finest lace trim. How well considered her choice is: the noble garment follows the spirit of the era, while masked faces complete the play of illusion and identity.

This is no mere wardrobe – it is a visible token of esteem for the entire ball assembly under the eyes of our sublime monarch, Frederick II.

The music begins. Pure harmony reigns on the floor, a dialogue without words. Do you see how Count Heinrich von Podewils and the Marquise patiently join the line at the bottom? They listen spellbound to the instructions of the dance master and would never leave the set during an ongoing round.

On our floor, there are no mistakes, only variations. Should a couple stumble – perhaps because the zealous momentum of a Herr von Bielfeld momentarily exceeds their dancing orientation –, no blame tarnishes the mood. A subtle sign suffices, and our "Dance Angels" hasten to assist – galant helpers who guide clumsy couples through the figures with a smile and effortlessly restore the flow of the set.

Even away from the ballroom, Le Bon Genre never slumbers. Ah, how charming: observe the philosopher of Sanssouci, Count Algarotti, over at the buffet! How galantly he holds the porcelain plates, while Countess Camas selects the most delicious delicacies for them both with unerring taste. What a wonderful picture of care and stylish togetherness!

True politeness reveals itself here in thoughtfulness for others. One does not hastily hurry back for seconds before the rest of society has had the opportunity to enjoy the first choice.

As our supper lacks the customary liveried staff—who at court would attend to the heavy furnishings and present the dishes—it is incumbent upon the gallant attentiveness of those present to assume these duties themselves. When proceeding to the buffet, the gentleman shall carry the plates, whilst it falls to the lady to serve the repast for both herself and her companion. At the table itself, the gentleman will draw the chair for his lady. Should the occasion require a lady to rise from the table, all gentlemen seated there must rise immediately. Ladies dining without a designated escort may, at their pleasure, turn to any gentleman present to request such chivalrous attendance.

Pay attention to the invisible ballet in the room: whenever a lady rises from the table – whether during card games or teatime –, the gentlemen in her vicinity rise immediately, just as custom dictates at the court of Frederick the Great. A companion discreetly pulls back the chair. Upon her return, this dignified gesture is repeated. It is a rhythm that runs through the entire day.

And, of course, respect for our hosts and the magnificent historical halls requires that we do not carry food or drinks into the dancing rooms and refrain entirely from bringing our own refreshments.

As is custom, an artfully crafted Carte d’Adresse opens the doors to society's most elegant salons and hearts. The history of this delicate tradition is marked by true anecdotes and mastery: thus history began when one simply wrote one's own name on the back of a discarded playing card and slipped it into the lock of an esteemed gentleman's door.

In the golden age of Rococo, it was above all gifted artists who created these fine cards using the masterful technique of copperplate engraving – in German lands, the famous Johann Michael Mettenleiter was particularly prominent in this regard. A truly noble gentleman paid meticulous attention at the table and in the salon to ensure that the engraving displayed true character: the reverse side had to remain smooth, while only the front bore an embossed impression. To silently convey the reason for one's visit, a clever folding technique was employed – such as folding the top left corner, which discreetly indicated to their lordships that the intended host had unfortunately not been met.

---

The Consummate Toilette

Complexion, Coiffure & the Secret of the Mouches

---

---

Authentic Fashion & Attire

Silhouette, Fabrics & the Mystery of the Mask

---

---

Distinguished Gestures & Expressions

Posture, Reverence & the Language of the Fan

---