Burattini et Fantoccini

Burattini are traditional Italian glove puppets that emerged in the 16th century, inspired by the character « Burattino » from thecommedia dell’arte. The Swiss Museum of Puppetry houses a collection of burattini, including a set entrusted by the family of the Ticinese collector Plinio Grossi (1924-2012). These pieces bear witness to a tradition that remains very much alive in northern Italy.
Fantoccini, small puppets operated by strings, wires, or mechanisms, also confirm Italian creativity in another very popular tradition.