Largesse 101: What is it & How to Get Involved
Presented by Lady Mar'itsa Sumnikova
MKA Melissa Rusnak melissa(at)donotfeedtherobots(dot)com
Marche of the Thistle, Barony of Brendoken, Middle Kingdom
A .pdf of this page is available if you'd like to use it as a handout for a class please contact me. If you print off this page for usage please include proper attribution as a courtesy.
The word Largesse itself is defined as "...something given to someone without expectation of a return. It is also the quality or state of being generous."1
"The generosity of largesse is comprised not only of giving, but also in how you treat people generously. It represents the give and take of life, divinely inspired to the religious, inspired by conscience to others." Jacques, D. Joseph. Chivalry-Now: the Code of Male Ethics. O Books, 2010 Chapter 13
A key part of the Slavic persona is Generosity, to be giving of time and of respect, not just of physical objects with a monetary value. For this reason the topic of Largesse is near and dear to my heart.
References to Largesse appear in many texts throughout history. The range of events commemorated by gifts of Largesse vary as widely as the quality and quantity given. There are many excellent articles out there dedicated to the subject if you'd like to further delve into examples of Largesse from history. (see the Links section at the bottom of this section)
When I have taught my Largesse 101 Classes at various events the comment I seem to hear most frequently during and after the class is "I didn't know just anyone could make Largesse!"
While the standards for Largesse do vary from Kingdom to Kingdom, I see Largesse as a gateway to skill development, research, documentation, collaboration and engagement in the A&S community. It's a wonderful feeling to see someone enjoying something that you have made with your own hands. It's a way to gain exposure and recognition for yourself and your craftsmanship both locally and throughout the Known World. Not only that, but in creating Largesse you help alleviate some of the burden from our Crowned heads at all levels, and ensure that there is a steady supply of beautiful things to give to Newcomers, to gift in appreciation to the populace and with which to show hospitality to visiting dignitaries.
There are several different kinds of competitions that are held to obtain donations of Largesse. Whenever I host one of the below types of Donation Derbies I like to make a participation token for each of the participants as a way to say thank you for their generosity.
Half-Dozen - 6 pieces required to enter. Winner then chooses 1 item to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
"Dirty" Half-Dozen - 7 pieces required enter. Winner then receives 1 of EACH other entry to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
Dozen Derby - 12 pieces required to enter. Winner then chooses 1 item to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
"Dirty" Dozen - 13 pieces required enter. Winner then receives 1 of EACH other entry to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
Required Item Tagging: The Entrant's SCA Name, Home Barony or Shire & Kingdom, and a description of the item and a list of materials it is made out of with any possible allergens listed should be included with each entry.
Documentation Required: There may be a special case where this is a requirement to enter a Derby. If it is not spelled out in the event information, contact the host.
Documentation Optional: This is the case for most Derbies and may or may not net you "bonus" points.
Q: Do I have to be a Royal to give Largesse?
A: Absolutely not! History abounds with the giving of gifts from one person to another across all social classes. You are allowed to walk up to someone whom you have spied doing something chivalric and give them a token of appreciation, you can compliment someone on their garb and gift them a small thing, there are many reasons and ways to show gratitude to others through small gifts of Largesse.
Often as you walk by A&S displays you may see little tokens placed onto an entry. These personal tokens are a way to show appreciation for the entrant's craftsmanship. If you enter an A&S competition and a little item appears on your entry don't leave it behind, take it with you! It's someone's way of saying thanks for the effort you have put forth. Even if you don't win the competition, it's nice to know your work has been appreciated. Some even attach their favorites to a "brag rag" or treasure necklace!
Q: How much do I have to spend on making Largesse?
A: Be generous so far as your resources allow.
Q: What if I have money but not the time to create Largesse?
A: Demonstrate your generosity by sponsoring Largesse, also known as Patronage. Do you wish to provide Largesse to the Crown and have resources but not the time? Look around your group, there may be an artisan with the time and skills but not the resources to create the items that you are in need of.
Q: Does it have to be period?
A: Not necessarily. Check with the Largesse Coordinator or Derby host to see if there are any special requirements.
Q: Does Largesse have to be handmade?
A: This question is tricky. It really depends on what you are donating or entering. Kits for new fighters for example often contain items like duct tape, first aid kits and the like which are store bought items, however most entries into Derbies that you will see are handmade.
Q: Does Largesse have to be something large?
A: No. In fact, several small items are easier to transport than one large item. When you're considering an item that will be distributed by a traveling Personage keep in mind the breakability factor. It will be packed, moved, unpacked and perhaps even dropped!
Q: What color should I make something?
A: I usually use my own judgement on this. Let's say I am making a piece of Largesse for someone specific to show appreciation and I know their device has red and black or they have a favorite motif I would use those colors or that motif. For Kingdom or Barony level award related items, stick to the colors of those awards. Kumihimo in the colors of a particular award are a great example. When in doubt, ask.
Q: Should I make something for a specific time period?
A: This is another area where I use my own judgement. If it's for someone specific I would make it to fit that Persona's place and time. Something that is period, and can be used by any persona gives a lot of possibilities. See the list of ideas below.
And now the most burning question of all:
Q: What kind of Largesse should I make?
A: If it's something you'd like to receive chances are someone else would like one too!
I've compiled a list below for reference. These are not the only possibilities, and if you have an idea run it by a Largesse Coordinator or Minister of Arts & Sciences!
Armor Sachets (a cloth bag of Cedar Chips or a sandable Cedar plank) to go into the armor bag, Duct Tape (Silver & Black are perhaps most used) Neck Coolers, Small First-Aid Kits, Basic Weapon/Armor/Archery Repair Kits (ask a Marshal for what items would be most useful), Electrical Tape or Grip Tape, Oil Wipes, Small Pieces of Leather, Bird Blunts (Archery piece that is used to go over the tip of a blade), Sanding Block or Sponge, Quick Rivets, Leather Strapping, Pliers or Small Hammers, Heavy Duty Scissors, Paracord, Hose Clamps, Zip-Ties, Beeswax, Leather Bracers, Leather Finger Guards
For even more ideas visit the links below:
Artemisia Derby Entry List This Page has a list of items entered into a derby to give you some ideas of items that went into a competiton.
Don't hesitate to contact Largesse Coordinators for any missives from the Crown! (Largesse missives can also be found on their Majesty's page at midrealm.org)
Presented by Lady Mar'itsa Sumnikova
MKA Melissa Rusnak melissa(at)donotfeedtherobots(dot)com
Marche of the Thistle, Barony of Brendoken, Middle Kingdom
A .pdf of this page is available if you'd like to use it as a handout for a class please contact me. If you print off this page for usage please include proper attribution as a courtesy.
The word Largesse itself is defined as "...something given to someone without expectation of a return. It is also the quality or state of being generous."1
"The generosity of largesse is comprised not only of giving, but also in how you treat people generously. It represents the give and take of life, divinely inspired to the religious, inspired by conscience to others." Jacques, D. Joseph. Chivalry-Now: the Code of Male Ethics. O Books, 2010 Chapter 13
A key part of the Slavic persona is Generosity, to be giving of time and of respect, not just of physical objects with a monetary value. For this reason the topic of Largesse is near and dear to my heart.
References to Largesse appear in many texts throughout history. The range of events commemorated by gifts of Largesse vary as widely as the quality and quantity given. There are many excellent articles out there dedicated to the subject if you'd like to further delve into examples of Largesse from history. (see the Links section at the bottom of this section)
“…As an experience of largesse --the supreme chivalric virtue-- gift giving held a prominent place in the long tradition of ethico-political treatises and thus in the norms of conduct of medieval elites. Gifts were used as political weapons to make and unmake alliances, to forge diplomatic ties, to signal dominance; they were deployed to bridge the divide between humans and the divine in charitable giving. And because they tended to be more precious and memorable than everyday objects and carried special meanings, they spoke to people's aesthetic and affective sensibilities. Medieval society afforded countless opportunities for granting presents…” 2
Our Modern Middle Ages are no different. There are countless opportunities for granting presents, which are referred to commonly as tokens. At all levels from Kingdom to Barony, Largesse can be a heavy expense. We as members of the populace have the chance to help our Royals play the part and demonstrate not only their personal wealth, but also the prosperity of their lands by distributing Largesse produced by the populace. Imagine if you will, a Crowned head stopping to present a token and with it a few kind words to a member of the populace, a gift of Largesse, a show of generosity. That act creates a great memory for the recipient and great respect for the giver and enhances the experience of the dream we strive for.
When I have taught my Largesse 101 Classes at various events the comment I seem to hear most frequently during and after the class is "I didn't know just anyone could make Largesse!"
While the standards for Largesse do vary from Kingdom to Kingdom, I see Largesse as a gateway to skill development, research, documentation, collaboration and engagement in the A&S community. It's a wonderful feeling to see someone enjoying something that you have made with your own hands. It's a way to gain exposure and recognition for yourself and your craftsmanship both locally and throughout the Known World. Not only that, but in creating Largesse you help alleviate some of the burden from our Crowned heads at all levels, and ensure that there is a steady supply of beautiful things to give to Newcomers, to gift in appreciation to the populace and with which to show hospitality to visiting dignitaries.
Sources:
1 Largesse| Definition of Largesse. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web. 18 Jan. 2017. .
2 Excerpts from Brigitte Buettner, "Past Presents: New Year's Gifts at the Valois Court, ca. 1400," Art Bulletin, 83 (2001), 598-625.
Largesse Derby Types
There are several different kinds of competitions that are held to obtain donations of Largesse. Whenever I host one of the below types of Donation Derbies I like to make a participation token for each of the participants as a way to say thank you for their generosity.
"Dirty" Half-Dozen - 7 pieces required enter. Winner then receives 1 of EACH other entry to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
Dozen Derby - 12 pieces required to enter. Winner then chooses 1 item to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
"Dirty" Dozen - 13 pieces required enter. Winner then receives 1 of EACH other entry to keep as their prize. The rest of the items are then either donated to the Local Largesse Kitty or to the Crown.
Entry Types & Misc Rules
Single Entry: An entry must may be made by a single person.
Group Entry: An entry is made by a group or guild.
Single Sets Only: Each entrant may only submit one entry.
No Set Limit: Each entrant may submit as many sets of 7-13 pieces as they like depending on the type of Derby they are participating in.
100 Mile Rule: Entrants who live within a 100 mile radius of the event may enter.
Present to Win: Derby requires the winning entrants to be present for court. If this is not the case, then you may send an entry with a friend or to the host via mail.
Required Item Tagging: The Entrant's SCA Name, Home Barony or Shire & Kingdom, and a description of the item and a list of materials it is made out of with any possible allergens listed should be included with each entry.
Documentation Required: There may be a special case where this is a requirement to enter a Derby. If it is not spelled out in the event information, contact the host.
Documentation Optional: This is the case for most Derbies and may or may not net you "bonus" points.
Judging
Most Derbies are judged by populace bean count. They may also be Baron & Baroness' Choice, Crown's Choice or Peer Choice. Usually there is not a first or second place winner, but Judging method should be spelled out in the event information.
IMPORTANT things to Remember about Largesse
LABEL EVERYTHING! Include your SCA name & where you live in the SCA. (Made by SCA Name, Shire or Barony, Kingdom) Including mundane contact information is optional, however it makes sending a thank you or requesting a favorite item that much easier!
LIST INGREDIENTS! Because of allergies I cannot stress enough how important this is, not only for food items but for metal and scented items as well.
SECURELY CONTAIN EVERYTHING! Make sure food, drinks, scented items, loose items such as rivets or beads have no opportunity to get loose and cause havoc. If you are donating breakable items its OK to pack them in boxes with bubble wrap for the sake of security even if it’s not a period packing method.
Largesse Q&A
Q: Do I have to be a Royal to give Largesse?
A: Absolutely not! History abounds with the giving of gifts from one person to another across all social classes. You are allowed to walk up to someone whom you have spied doing something chivalric and give them a token of appreciation, you can compliment someone on their garb and gift them a small thing, there are many reasons and ways to show gratitude to others through small gifts of Largesse.
Often as you walk by A&S displays you may see little tokens placed onto an entry. These personal tokens are a way to show appreciation for the entrant's craftsmanship. If you enter an A&S competition and a little item appears on your entry don't leave it behind, take it with you! It's someone's way of saying thanks for the effort you have put forth. Even if you don't win the competition, it's nice to know your work has been appreciated. Some even attach their favorites to a "brag rag" or treasure necklace!
Q: How much do I have to spend on making Largesse?
A: Be generous so far as your resources allow.
Q: What if I have money but not the time to create Largesse?
A: Demonstrate your generosity by sponsoring Largesse, also known as Patronage. Do you wish to provide Largesse to the Crown and have resources but not the time? Look around your group, there may be an artisan with the time and skills but not the resources to create the items that you are in need of.
Q: Does it have to be period?
A: Not necessarily. Check with the Largesse Coordinator or Derby host to see if there are any special requirements.
Q: Does Largesse have to be handmade?
A: This question is tricky. It really depends on what you are donating or entering. Kits for new fighters for example often contain items like duct tape, first aid kits and the like which are store bought items, however most entries into Derbies that you will see are handmade.
Q: Does Largesse have to be something large?
A: No. In fact, several small items are easier to transport than one large item. When you're considering an item that will be distributed by a traveling Personage keep in mind the breakability factor. It will be packed, moved, unpacked and perhaps even dropped!
Q: What color should I make something?
A: I usually use my own judgement on this. Let's say I am making a piece of Largesse for someone specific to show appreciation and I know their device has red and black or they have a favorite motif I would use those colors or that motif. For Kingdom or Barony level award related items, stick to the colors of those awards. Kumihimo in the colors of a particular award are a great example. When in doubt, ask.
Q: Should I make something for a specific time period?
A: This is another area where I use my own judgement. If it's for someone specific I would make it to fit that Persona's place and time. Something that is period, and can be used by any persona gives a lot of possibilities. See the list of ideas below.
And now the most burning question of all:
Q: What kind of Largesse should I make?
A: If it's something you'd like to receive chances are someone else would like one too!
I've compiled a list below for reference. These are not the only possibilities, and if you have an idea run it by a Largesse Coordinator or Minister of Arts & Sciences!
Martial:
Armor Sachets (a cloth bag of Cedar Chips or a sandable Cedar plank) to go into the armor bag, Duct Tape (Silver & Black are perhaps most used) Neck Coolers, Small First-Aid Kits, Basic Weapon/Armor/Archery Repair Kits (ask a Marshal for what items would be most useful), Electrical Tape or Grip Tape, Oil Wipes, Small Pieces of Leather, Bird Blunts (Archery piece that is used to go over the tip of a blade), Sanding Block or Sponge, Quick Rivets, Leather Strapping, Pliers or Small Hammers, Heavy Duty Scissors, Paracord, Hose Clamps, Zip-Ties, Beeswax, Leather Bracers, Leather Finger Guards
Scribal:
Calligraphy Quills, Parchment Paper, Scroll Blanks, Illuminated Cards, Illuminated Bookmarks, Seals & Sealing Wax, Scroll Cases
Unisex Items:
Wooden or Metal Boxes, Tankard Frogs (also called mug frogs), Feast Gear (wooden or earthenware mugs, flatware sets, placemats, plates, etc.), Napkins (hem a small square of linen, add embroidery perhaps), Fabric Cup Covers, Waxed Linen Rounds, Pouches with or without embellishment (make a drab drawstring pouch a work of art by adding some hand embroidery, applique or block printing), Belt Pouches, Haversacks, Belts (2-3 yards at least 2" wide if woven) AVOID WHITE RED GREEN OR YELLOW they are reserved colors for Orders within many Kingdoms - consult your Kingdom Sumptuary Laws, Woven Cords (Kumihimo, Lucet, fingerwoven or otherwise in at least 36" lengths or 12" lengths in large sets), Period Trim (at least 1 yard for a neckline, add more to match cuffs), Leather Cord, Pieces or Lacing, Period Fabric, Skeins of Wool, Linen or Silk Thread, Cloak Pins or Fibulas, Buttons - Natural, Metal, Cloth or Thread Covered (12+ to close a doublet, 12-20 for 2 sleeves), Card Weaving Kits (tablets + instructions), Lucet Kits (Lucet, thread + instructions), Naalbinding Kits (Needle, fiber + instructions), Metal work (small hand-forged items like fire-strikers or troll crosses), Journals or Notebooks, Wooden or Bone Combs, Tissue Covers, Cell Phone Pouches, Pater Nosters, Glass Beads or Stone Beads, Hook & Eye Closures (set of at least two), Buckles (pairs or single are fine), Period Games (include board. instructions & all pieces), Struck Coins or tokens for Games, Dice
For the Gents:
"Man Bag" (a bag to carry drinks, etc), Mustache Wax or Beard Balm, Bruise Cream, Muscle Cream (Icy-Hot or similar), Hats, Hoods, Bottle Openers, Heavy Duty Handsoap (such as pumice or Viking Soap), Men-Ding Kits (think sewing kit, but for "manly" repairs)
For the Ladies:
Needles, Needle Cases, Pincushions, Embroidery Kits (Include pattern, instructions + supplies), Veils * Veil Pins, Aprons, Scented Sachets, Embroidery Supplies (beeswax, snips, thread of all types), Bent Wood Boxes, Lady's Most often Left Behind Bag (includes Shout Wipes, Wet Wipes, Lip Balm, Bobby-Pins, Ponytail Bands, Safety Pins, etc.), Jewelry of All Types
For the Littles:
Period Toys (fabric poppets, wood animals, hobby horses, leather balls, juggling toys, tops), Doodle Pads with Colored Pencils (Crayons tend to melt), Bubble Wands & Solution (make sure containers can be SECURELY closed)
For even more ideas visit the links below:
Don't hesitate to contact Largesse Coordinators for any missives from the Crown! (Largesse missives can also be found on their Majesty's page at midrealm.org)