A peculiar historical artifact known as the vanvera reveals how 17th-century aristocrats addressed an age-old concern: the embarrassment of flatulence in social situations. This discreet device, designed to mask both sound and smell, served a specific purpose—allowing individuals to pass gas without disrupting dinner conversations or social gatherings.
The Invention of the Vanvera
The vanvera became a notable oddity in historical discussions due to its unconventional design. A small leather pouch, it was crafted to sit against the wearer’s backside, trapping any noise or odor. Once privacy was assured, the pouch could be emptied manually. This peculiar solution exemplifies the lengths to which individuals went to maintain decorum during a time when reputation was paramount.
Evidence of the vanvera’s existence can be traced to Europe in the 1600s, particularly in Italy, where strict social etiquette regarding bodily functions was observed. As reported by Oddity Central, the device was primarily associated with women of the upper class, largely due to the layered dresses of the era that allowed for easier concealment.
Variations and Experiments
Historical accounts suggest that the vanvera came in several forms. The most basic version was a simple leather bag worn beneath skirts. However, wealthier households devised more elaborate solutions. Some aristocrats installed intricate piping systems that directed flatulence from their beds to the outside air, a practice that underscores the cultural emphasis on maintaining one’s reputation over personal comfort.
Innovative yet ultimately unsuccessful designs also emerged. One such attempt involved a metal vanvera integrated into underwear, intended to be filled with dried herbs like lavender and rosemary. The concept was that gas would pass through the herbs, resulting in a fragrant output. Unfortunately, the noise remained unmasked, defeating the purpose of the device. This design did not gain popularity and faded into obscurity.
What makes the vanvera particularly fascinating is not just its absurdity but also the reflection it offers on human nature. Throughout history, individuals have sought ways to manage bodily functions in social settings, illustrating a universal concern for dignity and propriety. While the vanvera did not become a common accessory and eventually disappeared with changing fashion and improvements in plumbing, it represents an intriguing chapter in the history of social etiquette.
Before the advent of modern deodorizing methods, the aristocracy demonstrated remarkable creativity in engineering solutions to maintain their dignity. The vanvera serves as a reminder that, regardless of the era, people have always found ways to navigate the complexities of social interactions while confronting their own human vulnerabilities.