This engraving by Nicholas Larmessin after Dominique Feti shows a 17th century actor holding a mask of the type worn in the Italian knockabout comedy called the Commedia dell'Arte, or 'artistic comedy'. This was the popular improvised comedy which flourished in Italy from the 16th to the 18th centuries and had an impact on theatre throughout Europe, especially France. Commedia plays were acted along pre-arranged scenarios but relied on the performers' ability to improvise and ensured their popularity with a mixture of slapstick comedy, acrobatic leaping and romantic interest. Various visiting Italian troupes performed in France in the 16th century where their type of theatre was called the Comédie-Italienne. By the 17th century however their plays were being performed largely in French, and by the 18th century Commedia dell'Arte was a recognised part of the French theatre.

The comedian pictured is Francesco Andreini, famous for his performances as the trickster Scapino.