Johann Joachim, Herr von Zinzendorf und Pottendorf

What people wore

Innovations in 16th-century women's clothing

While women's clothing traditionally featured a single-piece garment from shoulder to ankle, the second half of the 16th century saw innovations like separated sleeves and, eventually, distinct bodices. Skirts made of lighter materials like cotton or silk were often called names like barchanky or harasky.

Daily life

Cutting eggs with human hair

A forgotten trick for cutting eggs involved using a human hair or thread held taut like a string. This method produced a cleaner cut than a knife, preventing the yolk from falling out of the white.

Work

Daily hardship and compensation structure

Daily life was characterized by persistent malnutrition and intense, day-long labor that left little room for leisure. Journeymen often lived with their masters, receiving their pay alongside food, housing, and tools as part of their compensation package.

Music

City trumpeters and tower music

City trumpeters employed by councils, such as the Old Town Council in Prague, were responsible for announcing hours and performing music from town hall towers. By 1585, instructions reveal these instrumentalists were expected to perform sophisticated polyphony like motets twice a day during warmer months.

At the table

Shared eating tools and bread plates

Diners typically used their own personal knives and spoons to eat, while a single large serving fork was shared by everyone at the table. Meat was often placed directly on top of slices of bread, which served as a rudimentary plate.

Getting around

Methods of travel and common difficulties

In the 16th century, ordinary people typically traveled on foot, on horseback, or in wagons pulled by horses or mules. Travel was slow, uncomfortable, and often dangerous due to the poor condition of paths and the presence of robbers.

What it cost

Regulated prices for footwear, 1578

By 1578, regulation set the price for sturdy riding boots at 1 kopa and 20 groschen, while simpler shoes were priced at 44 groschen.