In the 17th century, an unusual device known as the vanvera emerged among aristocrats as a means to discreetly manage flatulence during social gatherings. This invention, which many might find hard to believe, was a small leather pouch designed to be worn against the body, effectively trapping both sound and odor. One such example is currently on display at the Sex Machines Museum in Prague, illustrating the lengths to which the elite would go to preserve their dignity at the dinner table.
The vanvera is often associated with upper-class women of the time, as the layered dresses they wore made it easier to conceal. While some claims suggest the device has origins tracing back to ancient Egypt or Rome, historians generally agree it gained popularity in Europe during the 1600s, particularly in Italy, where societal customs regarding etiquette were taken very seriously.
The Varieties and Innovations of the Vanvera
According to Venezia Today, the vanvera came in several designs, reflecting the wealth and status of its users. The simplest form was a leather sack worn discreetly under skirts. Wealthier households, however, often opted for more elaborate contraptions. Some aristocrats installed intricate piping systems that directed flatulence from their beds directly out of windows, allowing them to enjoy their nighttime rest without the discomfort of social embarrassment.
Despite its creative engineering, not all vanvera designs were successful. One particular iteration involved a metal version fitted into underwear, infused with dried herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and sage. The intention was for gas to pass through the herbs, producing a pleasant aroma. Unfortunately, while this design masked unpleasant smells, it failed to suppress the sounds, undermining its purpose and ultimately leading to its decline in popularity.
Enduring Embarrassment and Changing Times
The fascination with the vanvera lies not only in its absurdity but also in the broader human experience of bodily embarrassment. Throughout history, people have sought ways to navigate social norms surrounding natural bodily functions. The vanvera, though never widely adopted, reflects the lengths to which individuals would go to maintain their reputations during an era where decorum was paramount.
As fashion evolved and plumbing technology advanced, the vanvera eventually fell out of use. Nonetheless, its existence serves as a reminder of the inventive solutions that arise from the desire for dignity. Before the advent of modern air fresheners and polite excuses, the aristocracy engineered their own solutions to maintain social grace.
The vanvera exemplifies how societal pressures can lead to unique, if not peculiar, innovations in history. Even today, the quest for personal comfort and social acceptance continues to shape our lifestyles, albeit in less conspicuous ways.
