Sugar as Piece of Art, Symbol of Social Status, Luxury and Humour Sugar Banquet in Honor of King Henry III of France in the Doge's Palace in Venice July 25, 1574
2021
Abstract
In the past sugar was not just a sweetener, confectionery, or medicine. In the form of sugar statues and ornaments it also served as a work of art, which adorned the Renaissance banquet tables of the richest aristocratic courts in Europe.
The sugar and the works created from it expressed the high social and power position of its owners, their exclusivity, luxury, wealth, and high taste. It could also be a source of fun and humour.
All this can be demonstrated at the magnificent cele¬bration on the occasion of the visit of the young King Henry III of France and Poland in Venice in July 1574.