The Royal Łazienki Museum presents From Tournament to Carousel , an exhibition that meticulously traces the evolution of knights' games in modern Europe. Explore masterpieces of European armour smithing and examine historical armaments used in 15th-16th century tournament culture. This display visually reconstructs mounted warrior duels with life-size mannequins, offering a comprehensive look at medieval and Renaissance martial traditions.
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This exhibition showcases masterpieces of European armour smithing, exploring the evolution of knights' games from honourable skirmishes to elaborate aristocratic spectacles. Visitors can expect to see life-size mannequins and historical armaments that illustrate the tournament culture of the 15th-16th centuries.
The exhibition "From Tournament to Carousel. Knights’ Games in Modern Europe" delves into the rich history of tournament culture in 15th-16th century Poland and Europe. Originating from medieval court life, knights' tournaments transformed over centuries from practical military exercises into ideological expressions of the chivalric ethos and glamorous aristocratic spectacles. The display features over 30-kilogram tournament armours, highlighting advanced designs and protective elements crafted for mock combat. These artefacts, considered masterpieces of European armouring, are primarily sourced from the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, renowned for its exceptional collection of tournament and ceremonial weaponry. Alongside these, elements of offensive and protective armaments from the Museum of the Polish Army and Wawel Royal Castle collections, including distinctive 'frog-mouth' helms and decorated Hussar shields, are presented. The exhibition visually reconstructs the duel of mounted warriors with life-size mannequins, showcasing the specialized armour designed to withstand lance impacts. It also presents two-handed swords from the Dresden collection, referencing foot combat, and other armaments that provide a comprehensive look at the evolution and cultural significance of these knightly games. The display offers a unique opportunity to engage with the craftsmanship and historical context of medieval and Renaissance martial traditions.
Tickets are available for PLN 16 (normal), PLN 8 (reduced), and PLN 1 (children aged up to 7 and youth up to 26). Admission is free on Fridays. The exhibition is located in the Kubicki Stables.
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