Bell costume

various forms of the bell costume in a courtly context, depicted on a wall hanging, Middle Rhine area around 1410–1430

A bell costume is a common dress for men and women , which has been worn by noble people since the 10th century and which also appeared in the cities in the second quarter of the 14th century and, despite all the luxury laws, remained until the middle of the 15th century received.

Originally only the belt was fitted with round, egg or pear-shaped bells . In the 15th century people wore a special bell belt like a bandolier across the chest and back (see picture), and individual bells were also attached to the neckline of the robe and the edges of the sleeves. Later they could only be seen in the clothes of the court jesters who made fun of themselves with the clothes that had gone out of fashion. An entire ring of bells was preserved, especially on the fool's cap .