Lanterns, a Basler centenarian and a digital Fasnachtmuseum
17 March 2025
The Basler Fasnacht is over again (March 10-12, 2025)—or not. On three consecutive ‘Bummelsonntage’ after March 13, the active participants again present themselves to the public with their drums, piccolos, wind, and percussion instruments in cliques or informal formations.
However, they do this without Fasnacht costumes, cortège, or lanterns. This practice symbolises an essential social aspect of Fasnacht: it is for and by the citizens and their associations, without distinction of person, Age, gender, origin, title, education or profession.
They have nothing to hide nor fear sanctions for their social and political views and themes of the Fasnacht. Fasnacht is a public theatre where the city’s residents participate and serve as spectators. Moreover, Fasnacht is an integral part of Basel society, integrating all ranks, classes, and newcomers.
Moreover, this Fasnacht also had something to celebrate, and Frau Fasnacht did it in style. The most famous Fasnächtler, Jean Tinguely (1925-1991), was born a century ago. The museum and the Tinguely Brunnen in Basel pay attention to his time as an active and creative participant in the Fasnacht, even though he did not play an instrument. No fewer than 18 cliques chose Tinguely as their theme, featuring costumes, lanterns, wagons, and various objects.
Tinguely (and his wife Niki de Saint Phalle, 1930-2002) has his museum (and not only in Basel). Regrettably, the often beautiful lanterns dedicated to him are no longer accessible to the public. It also applies to other lanterns.
The smoke commemorates an incident in 1974. Tinguely ignited fireworks with a lot of smoke in the Cortège, which led to a lawsuit and angry reactions. Fifty years later, they have him forgiven.
Moreover, it is interesting for historians to gain insight into the (international) politics and (regional and national) themes of that moment in 100 years (or earlier).
Lanterne and larven of the Verschnuuffer Clique
The lanterns and subjects (and the Schnitzelbängg) give an impression of what occupies people; they mirror the spirit of the times and society. For example, they agree on Trump: “Em Trump sy Arroganz isch e Dootedanz” and “Putin und Trump, das isch bekannt – gänn sich gärn die rächti Hand“.
An idea for a digital Fasnacht museum?
Initiative for a digital Fasnacht museum based on random lanterns, wagons, costumes, and themes
And a shop nearby
