Who is Brighella ?

Brighella is an essential servant in the Commedia dell'arte, originating from Bergamo. He shares some traits with Arlecchino, particularly his cunning nature. One could even say that Brighella is a slightly older, more portly Arlecchino, better off financially, but still haunted by the hardships of his past. He is loyal and helpful, but also very scheming, even quarrelsome and insolent.

Engraving by Maurice Sand, Brighella - Masques et Bouffons

What are the origins of Brighella ?

Brighella is from Bergamo in Lombardy. Brighella comes from "brigare" which means master of cunning, hence this character is cunning (in Italian, "attacabrighe" also means quarrelsome).

What are the characteristics of Brighella ?

Brighella is an iconic and one of the most consistent valets in the Commedia dell'arte. He is dressed in white and green with a dark mask.

He is insolent and boastful when he is out of sight. His mask has rounded features, while retaining, like Harlequin's, a certain mischievousness.

Characters such as Figaro and Scapin are inspired by Brighella.

Click here to see our Brighella's masks