Ron the Yarn Spinner

                                                     The Barber of Seville

                                                 

The Barber of Seville is a comic opera by Gioachino Rossini, based on the play by Pierre Beaumarchais. Premiered in 1816, it is one of the most famous and frequently performed operas in the world. The story is set in Seville, Spain, and follows the clever barber Figaro as he helps Count Almaviva win the heart of the beautiful Rosina, who is kept under tight watch by her guardian, Dr. Bartolo, who also has his  eyes on her. The opera is known for its lively overture, memorable arias, and engaging plot full of disguises, schemes, and humorous twists. You might wonder why the playwright and Rossini chose the clever Figaro to be characterized as a barber. The inspiration came from a barber shop in France.

French Barbershops were popular social hubs where people not only went for haircuts and shaves but also gathered to interact, talk  and exchange news. In addition to grooming services, barbers often performed basic medical procedures such as bloodletting and tooth extractions, which made them integral to the community. They often served as general confidants and problem-solvers within their communities. Barbers, like some of today’s bartenders,  were often  viewed as non-judgmental listeners who would assume  a neutral posture in a quasi-counseling role, offering advice and support. Their insights, although informal, could  be  helpful to those seeking guidance. This made the barber an ideal character for the clever and quick-witted Figaro, who needed to navigate complex social situations and devise cunning plans to assist Count Almaviva in his pursuit of the lovely  Rosina. Figaro's profession allows him to interact with various characters and move freely in different social circles, making him a pivotal figure in the comedic and intricate plot. The estimated three hundred barbers in Paris at the time  were held in high esteem. One “coiffeur " was extraordinary.

Legendary 19th-century French barber and wigmaker, Jean-Baptiste Augustin Sabouraud, a.k.a. Guillaume Sabouraud, was not just any barber; he was known for his incredible skills and  a penchant for eccentricity that made him a celebrity. Sabouraud's barber shop in Paris was a hub of innovation and curiosity. He was famous for his experiments with hair dyes and perfumes, which he made himself. But what truly set him apart was his dedication to the craft and the lengths to which he would go to ensure his clients always left satisfied. Sabouraud was known to dress in elaborate costumes, often donning wigs and theatrical outfits that made each visit to his shop a truly unique experience. His flair for the dramatic made his shop a popular location attracting not just locals but also tourists eager to see the flamboyant barber in action.

Among Sabouraud's famous clients was the French novelist Alexandre Dumas, author of "The Three Musketeers" and "The Count of Monte Cristo." Dumas was so impressed with the colorful Saburou’s skill and charisma that he often included the barber in his books.

 Sabouraud  was also known for designing and fabricating  the "mechanical barber chair." In an era long before the modern hydraulic chairs we see today, Sabouraud's chair was an absolute engineering marvel. It was equipped with levers and pulleys that allowed him to adjust the height and angle of the chair with absolute precision, ensuring his clients were always in the perfect position for a shave or a haircut. This chair not only improved the comfort and experience for his clients but also showcased his innovative spirit.

Sabouraud's wit, charm, and engaging personality  inspired the creation of characters like Figaro, the clever barber in Beaumarchais' plays and Rossini's opera. Guillaume Sabouraud exemplified the vibrant and intellectual atmosphere of Paris during his time, making him a memorable figure in the history of French literature and culture.