Objekt 14
Linen drum of the tailors' guild
Description
The drum was inextricably linked with the military life of the city - and thus also with the guilds, which also formed military units in Basel. They were used for signaling and keeping in step, but were also part of festive ceremonies. It made its grand entrance at the annual muster of the guilds: When their fitness for military service was tested, they would traditionally march into the drinking establishments with drums - loud, proud and in a good mood.
A special example is the drum of the tailors' guild. One of the most important tools of the trade is emblazoned on its frame: the tailor's shears. The guild once united a wide range of professions - from tailors, old clothes dealers and seamstresses to silk embroiderers and quilters who made quilted blankets.
The drum also tells a visual story: the black and white flames on the frame echo the colors of the Basel city coat of arms.
Object description
Maker unknown
Basel (?), mid 18th century
Coat of arms shield of the tailors' guild with scissors (painted, frame)
Brass frame, painted: black and white flames, 2 wooden hoops, line in ten strips
H. 37 cm, diam. 40 cm
Gift E. E. Zunft zu Schneidern, Basel Inv. no. 1947.142.