Stuff You Should Know How Snowmen (And Snowwomen) Work
Dec 21, 2021
Dive into the whimsical world of snowmen and snowwomen, exploring their historical origins and cultural significance through the ages. Discover the enchanting folklore of the Snow Maiden and her ties to winter festivities. Learn about the art of building snowpeople with creative tips and hilarious name suggestions. The discussion also touches on the emotional narratives behind these winter symbols and how they reflect human experiences, all while highlighting a charitable initiative that adds a meaningful twist to the frosty fun.
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Earliest Snowman Depiction
- The first documented snowman image appears in a 1380 Dutch manuscript, the Book of Hours.
- It depicts a snowman with a Jewish cap, next to text about Jesus's crucifixion, possibly reflecting anti-Semitism during the plague.
Michelangelo's Snowman
- Michelangelo built a snowman in 1494 in the Medici courtyard, commissioned by Piero the Unfortunate.
- This highlights how Renaissance artists sometimes used snow as a medium.
Brussels Snowman Festival
- During the "Winter of Death" in 1511, Brussels held a snowman festival, creating snow sculptures, including cynical and humorous ones.
- This event, dubbed "The Miracle of 1511," was documented in a poem and journals.