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Faire Garb => Garbing => Topic started by: Cobaltblu on May 10, 2009, 04:46:46 PM

Title: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on May 10, 2009, 04:46:46 PM
Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?

I have seen a lot of people wearing these but is there a specific reason someone would wear one, or multiple ones?

I ask because I am considering getting one and hope it isn't like the "Horga'hn" statue which Captain Picard was given before he went to Risa on vacation, lol.  If you don't get the reference google "Horga'hn".

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Ozium on May 10, 2009, 04:50:56 PM
Here is one reason.

More than any other garment, the flea fur helps us to understand just how different living conditions were in sixteenth-century Europe. People of the period did not bathe very often, and they rarely washed their clothes or bedsheets. The conditions were perfect for infestations of fleas, small bloodsucking insects that live on the bodies of warm-blooded animals like humans. Even the wealthiest people had to endure frequent bites from fleas. One of the ways that they combated the pests was with flea fur.


A flea fur was made from the pelt of a small furry animal like a mink, an ermine, or a ferret. It was worn about the neck in the hopes that the fleas would prefer the thick and smelly fur of the animal to the smooth and smelly skin of a human. Wealthy people added ornaments to their flea furs, including jeweled clasps and golden chains. It is unknown whether poor people wore shabbier flea furs made from the pelts of rats and other less desirable rodents or simply endured the flea bites.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: NoBill Lurker on May 10, 2009, 04:53:28 PM
http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php?topic=3182.0 (http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php?topic=3182.0)

Here's a link to a old thread on this subject  ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Captain Jack Wolfe on May 10, 2009, 05:01:15 PM
Last year, a lovely patron asked my name.  I told her truthfully (quit laughing) "Captain Jack Wolfe."  We chatted, and then about an hour later she found me and presented me with a magnificent (artificial) grey wolf's tail.  She said it should serve as a warning to any woman that they are indeed talking to a wolf.  I immediately added it to my garb, and it's been a staple ever since.

Honestly, I don't think women need a warning flag flown about chatting with me.  Really, they don't.  At least I don't think they do.  OK, maybe a little.  Or a lot.  Damn, does this thing flash neon or something?  I should get it checked...  what does this do?  WHOA!!  Aircraft strobes?  Really?!  Come on!  That's a bit much!!  So much for subtlety.   ::) :D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Ozium on May 10, 2009, 05:04:08 PM
Well CB you got the front end of the fox, you just need the back end now.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on May 10, 2009, 05:06:03 PM
Quote from: Ozium on May 10, 2009, 05:04:08 PM
Well CB you got the front end of the fox, you just need the back end now.


You know I didn't think of that.  I definitely need that fox tail now to hang off the back of my belt.

Maybe I could dye some fox tails custom and give them to women to wear from the back of their belt to signify they are my "ladies".

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: sealion on May 10, 2009, 07:43:34 PM
The theory put forth here: http://art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=20181 that the marten was a symbol of fertility (and included in portraits of wealthy women to indicate that they were pregnant) sounds much more plausible to me than the idea that nobility would want to advertise that they had fleas or that a fle would prefer a dead pelt to a warm blooded person.
As for why people wear tails at faires I believe it is mostly so people will look at their tail and/or make crude jokes about wanting a piece of tail.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: FortuneRose on May 10, 2009, 07:44:46 PM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

But my two-pence here--I think any woman worth her independent thinking would balk at wearing a tail to signify they 'belong' to someone.  :)



well said Welsh, well said...

I, too, wear my tail because I can and I think its just adorable.  And I also wouldn't wear a tail to show I belonged to someone.



I need to rechain mine, though....this past year it snapped from its cheapo little chain that it was bought on.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Ozium on May 10, 2009, 08:07:17 PM
Don't think i have heard that theory before Sealion. But i can tell you i take a warm blooded person
over a dead pelt.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on May 10, 2009, 09:29:14 PM
Quote from: FortuneRose on May 10, 2009, 07:44:46 PM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

But my two-pence here--I think any woman worth her independent thinking would balk at wearing a tail to signify they 'belong' to someone.  :)



well said Welsh, well said...

I, too, wear my tail because I can and I think its just adorable.  And I also wouldn't wear a tail to show I belonged to someone.



I need to rechain mine, though....this past year it snapped from its cheapo little chain that it was bought on.

I must apologize; I wasn't entirely serious with my comment.

Regardless of whether the fox tail means nothing, means I'm looking for tail (much like the Horga'hn in Star Trek), means I am pregnant, means I have fleas or means I want to be a furry...I think I'll get a fox tail anyway.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blue66669 on May 11, 2009, 09:00:01 AM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

But my two-pence here--I think any woman worth her independent thinking would balk at wearing a tail to signify they 'belong' to someone.  :)


I may object, depending on whom I was belonging to at the time LOL.

Some men are WORTH belonging to..... *wink*
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: DonaCatalina on May 11, 2009, 09:33:43 AM
It's a renfaire things which has no real historical basis. The Flea Fur is a modern costuming myth.

But some people like wearing them and there's no reason not to....since faires are for having fun.
Medieval clothing and textiles - by Robin Netherton, Gale R. Owen-Crocker - 2006.
Zibellini as a luxury accessory.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: WindChime on May 11, 2009, 05:38:07 PM
I wear 6 tails. I have a Rainbow colored one, a all black one, a all white one, silver fox one, and 2 half fox tails that broke last year and now are used as kind of a bussle for the other tails to make them look fuller.  I love the attention I get from little kids when they see all my tails.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Molden on May 11, 2009, 06:54:10 PM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

Wenchie said it best...so I'll just say Ditto!  :)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Sabrina Black on May 13, 2009, 12:37:00 PM
I just think tails look cool so I got one at TRF last fall.  It's all black and I just love it.  Gonna wear it at GA faire in a couple weeks. :)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Kruzar on May 13, 2009, 12:39:52 PM
I wear mine because I like it... and I am able to wear it proudly...   and besides I like when wenches come up and tug on it.. :)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Dinobabe on May 13, 2009, 04:34:56 PM
I wear an African horse tail fly swatter.  Everyone wants to know where I got it! ;)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: VIII on May 29, 2009, 06:27:01 PM
Not sure when or why, but it just seems like a way to sell and use a mostly discarded part of an animal.

What do I care, it gives me a reason to ogle!
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Celtic Lady on May 29, 2009, 07:09:38 PM
Quote from: Dinobabe on May 13, 2009, 04:34:56 PM
I wear an African horse tail fly swatter.  Everyone wants to know where I got it! ;)
I have one of those. I bought it at a tack shop and used it to shoo flies from my horse's head when we were out riding.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Pinn on May 30, 2009, 06:21:44 AM
Lairde Guard'n has a wonderful story about why some of us wear tails...........need to get him to tell it sometime. I can't remember all of it, I might have been drinking.  ::)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: eloquentXI on May 30, 2009, 06:51:29 AM
Quad-ditto to Wenchie.

I'm slowly getting a menagrie of tails, I've been promised one from a dear friend and am looking to get another one at TRF in the Fall, which will bring me to 4 once that's all said and done. I've only got 2 right, a gorgeous dark fox tail and then a cream mixed, with a bit of dark brown and honey fox tail. They are pretty.  ;D You can never have too much tail.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Dinobabe on May 30, 2009, 07:35:01 PM
Quote from: Celtic Lady on May 29, 2009, 07:09:38 PM
Quote from: Dinobabe on May 13, 2009, 04:34:56 PM
I wear an African horse tail fly swatter.  Everyone wants to know where I got it! ;)
I have one of those. I bought it at a tack shop and used it to shoo flies from my horse's head when we were out riding.

But how did your horse feel about that? ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Captain Jack Wolfe on May 30, 2009, 07:42:01 PM
Cinco de ditto to Wenchie's earlier sentiment.  Besides, what's a Wolfe without a tail?  And I don't mean the one he's chasing at the moment.   ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Seonaid on June 12, 2009, 04:01:08 AM
Quote from: DonaCatalina on May 11, 2009, 09:33:43 AM
It's a renfaire things which has no real historical basis. The Flea Fur is a modern costuming myth.

I'm pretty dure the flea fur isn't a costuming myth. http://www.naergilien.info/interesting_costumes/Unknown_Lady_Segar.jpg (http://www.naergilien.info/interesting_costumes/Unknown_Lady_Segar.jpg) shows a 16th century woman holding a flea fur, as does http://personalpedia.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/anguissola-portrait-of-isabel-de-valois-1563-65.jpg (http://personalpedia.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/anguissola-portrait-of-isabel-de-valois-1563-65.jpg)

The fox tail thing could be an different interpretation of this fashion, but flea furs did certainly exist.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: DonaCatalina on June 12, 2009, 08:05:00 AM
Quote from: Seonaid on June 12, 2009, 04:01:08 AM
Quote from: DonaCatalina on May 11, 2009, 09:33:43 AM
It's a renfaire things which has no real historical basis. The Flea Fur is a modern costuming myth.

I'm pretty dure the flea fur isn't a costuming myth. http://www.naergilien.info/interesting_costumes/Unknown_Lady_Segar.jpg (http://www.naergilien.info/interesting_costumes/Unknown_Lady_Segar.jpg) shows a 16th century woman holding a flea fur, as does http://personalpedia.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/anguissola-portrait-of-isabel-de-valois-1563-65.jpg (http://personalpedia.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/anguissola-portrait-of-isabel-de-valois-1563-65.jpg)

The fox tail thing could be an different interpretation of this fashion, but flea furs did certainly exist.
Medieval clothing and textiles - by Robin Netherton, Gale R. Owen-Crocker - 2006.
Zibellini as a luxury accessory.
Dress at the Court of Henry VIII (http://maney.co.uk/index.php/books/kinghenry/) evidence is drawn primarily from the great wardrobe accounts, wardrobe warrants, and inventories, and is interpreted using evidence from narrative sources, paintings, drawings and a small selection of contemporary garments.
The Medici Archives (http://documents.medici.org/) also contain letters, wardrobe accounts, inventories, bills, and receipts for cloth merchants, tailers, goldsmiths and furriers.
Most researchers into wardrobe accounts agree that these furs were considered luxury accessories and status symbols much like mink coats are today.
So far to this date - no wardrobe accounts for Renaissance households refer to these furs as attractors for fleas.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: groomporter on June 12, 2009, 09:06:03 AM
Yeah, it's not fur accessories were not worn in the Renaissance, they were, it's just that the concept of using them as "flea furs" seems to be a later, possibly Victorian era, explanation for these accessories.

There is also seems to a tiny minority of people who wear fur tails because they have fantasy personas who are animal shapeshifters.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Mistress Cherry on June 12, 2009, 09:35:23 AM
I was given one because someone thought I was "foxy" that day and wanted to watch it swish behind me. What other reasons do you need? Besides, they feel nice.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on June 12, 2009, 09:37:26 AM
Maybe they were gag gifts, like here take this wonderful luxury fur...which will give you fleas.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Carl Heinz on June 12, 2009, 09:53:40 AM
Fortunately, or unfortunately, ye olde Costuming Dept at RPFS whon't allow fox tails for participants.

Don't know if this has changed since I've seen them worn by some booth workers.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Rowan MacD on June 12, 2009, 10:29:05 AM
Quote from: DonaCatalina on May 11, 2009, 09:33:43 AM
It's a renfaire things which has no real historical basis. The Flea Fur is a modern costuming myth.

But some people like wearing them and there's no reason not to....since faires are for having fun.
Medieval clothing and textiles - by Robin Netherton, Gale R. Owen-Crocker - 2006.
Zibellini as a luxury accessory.

That's what I always thought.....it's just for fun!  I have three 2 raccoon and one fox. 


On a related subject:

  How much is a reasonable price for an 8" raccoon tail?  A 12" red or silver fox? A wolf tail (though I've never seen one)
  Anybody?


   
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on June 12, 2009, 10:42:32 AM
http://www.brettunsvillage.com/leather/haironhides.html (http://www.brettunsvillage.com/leather/haironhides.html)

This website sells all kinds of tails and furs and I think the prices are reasonable.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Sabina on June 16, 2009, 04:36:48 PM
Quote from: DonaCatalina on June 12, 2009, 08:05:00 AM
Medieval clothing and textiles - by Robin Netherton, Gale R. Owen-Crocker - 2006.
Zibellini as a luxury accessory.
Dress at the Court of Henry VIII (http://maney.co.uk/index.php/books/kinghenry/) evidence is drawn primarily from the great wardrobe accounts, wardrobe warrants, and inventories, and is interpreted using evidence from narrative sources, paintings, drawings and a small selection of contemporary garments.
The Medici Archives (http://documents.medici.org/) also contain letters, wardrobe accounts, inventories, bills, and receipts for cloth merchants, tailers, goldsmiths and furriers.
Most researchers into wardrobe accounts agree that these furs were considered luxury accessories and status symbols much like mink coats are today.
So far to this date - no wardrobe accounts for Renaissance households refer to these furs as attractors for fleas.

Well Wikipedia isn't helping debunk the idea that a Zibellino (the singular form of Zibellini) is a "flea fur":
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zibellino

However after looking at these I must say... I want one!

Authenticity for ye win...
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Cobaltblu on June 16, 2009, 05:07:20 PM
Maybe it was a "gag" gift which people would give to others and say it was a sign of high class but really just gave people fleas.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Capt Gabriela Fullpepper on June 17, 2009, 10:59:26 AM
It is really a wonder anyone would carry a flea fur. Fleas like blood and would thus be drawn to the fur on the flea fur and it would give them a home to bred in and then move over to the host for a free easy meal. This would have then made it easier to catch things like the plague. And since a flea fur does not have blood, a flea would not stay long on that item except maybe to bred and to hide in.

But then again this is modern science and medicine talking and not Renaissance Science and Medicine
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: DonaCatalina on June 17, 2010, 10:55:32 AM
Note the mink with the solid gold head.
(http://www.audreybmorin.ca/costumes/laudomia/images/bronzinoSchool_IsabellaDeMedici-landinFig93.jpg)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: gem on June 17, 2010, 11:59:37 AM
Quote from: Lady de Laney on June 17, 2009, 10:59:26 AM
It is really a wonder anyone would carry a flea fur. Fleas like blood and would thus be drawn to the fur on the flea fur and it would give them a home to breed in and then move over to the host for a free easy meal. This would have then made it easier to catch things like the plague. And since a flea fur does not have blood, a flea would not stay long on that item except maybe to breed and to hide in.
I'm with you on this, and also: given the prevalence of fleas, I'm guessing they probably had a LOT of firsthand, practical knowledge about living with pests.

I don't see why a zibellino would be any more likely to attract fleas than a fur stole would today.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: groomporter on June 17, 2010, 12:30:19 PM
You're right they wouldn't attract fleas, but facts often do not get in the way of people's beliefs and behaviours. Look at homeopathy for example.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Muffin on June 17, 2010, 01:50:33 PM
I am a Beer Wench at MNRF and wear a tail.. Whenever anyone asks me why I have a tail, my response is always "Well everyone likes a little tail with their beer" *wink* and then shake the toosh a little.. hee hee!  :D :-* Usually that response gets a laugh (and a tip)

In reality I always believed it was a flea catcher.. Whether that's true or not, it doesn't matter.. I think its fun! and my tail just happens to match my hair color almost exactly!  ;D So it works!
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blushing on June 17, 2010, 02:48:20 PM
Aye, it is indeed fun!

Although I do admit to removing my tail when I recently taught some Girl Scouts about the real Renaissance at a faire.  And there have been faires where the wearing of tails by workers is not allowed.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blue66669 on June 17, 2010, 04:41:29 PM
My tail is about 3 feet long and black and white. Some say I'm a sort of "lemur". It's teh awesome, I love my tail. Coolest... tail... EVAR!
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Woodland Artisan on June 17, 2010, 08:26:31 PM
I have no idea about the historical accuracy or effectiveness of those tails or "flea furs" but I did sell a few of the tails at fairs 2 years ago that I had been given by a friend in Alaska.  She bought pelts from a trapper up there and made all sorts of products.  The tails were leftovers that really didn't have much use or value even though they were some very very pretty furs like crystal fox, blue fox, mink, etc.

Now, as far as actually historically accurate ...  Look into "flea traps".   I make these out of wood but the few surviving ones from the Ren timeperiod are made from bone, ivory, etc.   They do work  (don't ask, HA!) and are an interesting addition to garb.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: isabelladangelo on June 23, 2010, 06:23:07 AM
Are the tails, as worn at the Renn Fest, accurate?  Absolutely NOT!   Actually, the closest thing in period is not the zibellini (which would have been decorated and was normally an entire pelt) but this painting: http://www.univie.ac.at/cga/art/beggars.jpg

Notice anything about that painting?   Everyone wearing the tails is a begger/homeless.  The people that wore "tails" in period were considered asylum worthy crazy which is why my persona stays as far away from them as she can.  ;-)

Now, on the topic of zibellini you can find a lot of paintings/evidence here:
http://www.larsdatter.com/zibellini.htm

No, they are not flea furs (that's why you have a dog!) but protective amulets (like coral is for children in the period).  They wore the entire pelt and were connected by a chain to the girdle of the wearer usually.   They often have gems or some other decoration on them depending on the status of the individual.  
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Rowan MacD on June 23, 2010, 03:05:49 PM
   I do get folks who ogle, touch or stop/slow down and ask about the tail (I always wear mine)
   I make up a story depending on my mood.  My favorite is the 'ranking system' for wenches.
1-(small) tail-novice wench (the listener can take that to mean what they want)
1-large or 2 tails-Veteren wench in charge of (whatever.) 
2-3+ tails-Braggart! 

Tails on men-Hmmmmm.  You have to assume the tail(s) were procured from wenches by whatever funny story they can make up on the spot.
   
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Tink on June 24, 2010, 12:26:44 AM
I knew there was a reason I wore 3 tails...  LOL
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blue66669 on June 24, 2010, 02:33:01 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on June 23, 2010, 03:05:49 PM
   I do get folks who ogle, touch or stop/slow down and ask about the tail (I always wear mine)
   I make up a story depending on my mood.  My favorite is the 'ranking system' for wenches.
1-(small) tail-novice wench (the listener can take that to mean what they want)
1-large or 2 tails-Veteren wench in charge of (whatever.) 
2-3+ tails-Braggart! 

Tails on men-Hmmmmm.  You have to assume the tail(s) were procured from wenches by whatever funny story they can make up on the spot.
   

Well???? What happens when you have one HUGE tail??? What then???
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: RumbaRue on June 24, 2010, 01:26:36 PM
I have a coyote tail, haven't worn it but once, but maybe I should more often. :D



There's more coyotes around here where I live.

pun intended ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Rowan MacD on June 26, 2010, 08:50:14 AM
Quote from: blue66669 on June 24, 2010, 02:33:01 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on June 23, 2010, 03:05:49 PM
1-large or 2 tails-Veteren wench in charge of (whatever.)     
Well???? What happens when you have one HUGE tail??? What then???

You are VERY important wench, and should be feared!  ;D

And I want to know where I can get a really big tail!  ^_^ 
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: groomporter on June 26, 2010, 09:12:29 AM
For a couple years we had a repeat game customer at MNRF who wore 9 tails. He said he was a Kitsune an anime,manga fox character. Apparently the more tails a kitsune has (up to nine) the older, wiser, and more powerful it is...
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blue66669 on June 26, 2010, 11:09:04 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on June 26, 2010, 08:50:14 AM
Quote from: blue66669 on June 24, 2010, 02:33:01 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on June 23, 2010, 03:05:49 PM
1-large or 2 tails-Veteren wench in charge of (whatever.)     
Well???? What happens when you have one HUGE tail??? What then???

You are VERY important wench, and should be feared!  ;D

And I want to know where I can get a really big tail!  ^_^ 

At TRF, I have a friend who owns a shoppe called All About Talez. Most awesome tails EVAR!
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: wickedwillingwench on June 26, 2010, 02:52:48 PM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

But my two-pence here--I think any woman worth her independent thinking would balk at wearing a tail to signify they 'belong' to someone.  :)


in reading this thread, this is what stuck out to me...why would a woman balk at wearing a tail or anything else to signify belonging??  Most of us wear wedding rings, eh?
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Tink on June 26, 2010, 03:38:55 PM
I think the difference there is that the wedding ring signifies our mutual commitment, whereas wearing something to show belonging signigies the wearer as a thing instead of a person (at least that's how I interpret it.)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: groomporter on June 26, 2010, 03:44:28 PM
And there IS a certain percentage of the population that is into the "belonging" thing more seriously than others...
A few years back my wife was up late and sleepless with pneumonia and woke me up when she saw someone on Jerry Springer that we knew from the fair connections and who was a guest on "Jerry" along with his "slave"  :o

-But it doesn't have to be along "property" lines -it could just be used as "livery" or "house colors" to show loyalty to a liege or family.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Becky10 on June 27, 2010, 03:45:41 AM
So, I have to ask, does anyone ever get those random moments of "aw poor dead thing" when they buy a tail? Cause I have been trying to get one for about 3 years now and every time I get close someone points out how similar it is to my dog's and I freak.  :-\
I am going to have to bite the bullet, part from anyone who knows my dog and buy one this next go around! :D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Blue66669 on June 27, 2010, 09:58:04 AM
Becky, getting one that's very unnaturally colored really kills that instantaneous OMGTHISUSEDTOBEALIVE feeling.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Delireus on June 27, 2010, 02:26:07 PM
It's not that I'm against animal fur, I just really freak out when I touch a tail and feel the skin in the middle. That's true for live animals too, I hate to feel a dogs tail and feel their skin. And rodents, i hate to touch their tail. But I very much want one, perhaps I'll buy one, hook it on my belt and never touch it? :/
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: wickedwillingwench on June 27, 2010, 05:28:47 PM
yanno, i am all for personal choice and to each his own and all that...it's just WEIRD to me to see a furry tail growin outta someone's a**.   Looks they are the wrong end of a fox dinner.  Ick.

I'll stick with wearing rooster feathers on my head. :P
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Auryn on June 27, 2010, 06:27:44 PM
I used to want a tail.
This year I had saved up and was all ready to go pick one out, then I felt it and could feel the tail bones inside. I dropped it like it was a live coal and haven't thought about getting one since.
I work with leather, I wear leather,however I am completely against wearing fur.
For some reason in my mind I had this idea that the tails were either synthetic or made of like rabbit fur or some other animal that is dispatched to be eaten- I don't know where the idea came from but thats what I thought.

So now no more tails for me.

In regards to the belonging thing, to each his own and as long as both people agree, more power to  em
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Tink on June 27, 2010, 07:50:13 PM
Quote from: Auryn on June 27, 2010, 06:27:44 PM
For some reason in my mind I had this idea that the tails were either synthetic or made of like rabbit fur or some other animal that is dispatched to be eaten- I don't know where the idea came from but thats what I thought.

I thought that as well, which is why I went ahead and procured some.  Found out last trip to faire that the animals (at least for this particular vendor) are bred solely for their fur.  No new tails for me.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Becky10 on June 29, 2010, 09:26:04 PM
 ;D Good to see I am not the only one! Lol
Quote from: Tink on June 27, 2010, 07:50:13 PM
Quote from: Auryn on June 27, 2010, 06:27:44 PM
For some reason in my mind I had this idea that the tails were either synthetic or made of like rabbit fur or some other animal that is dispatched to be eaten- I don't know where the idea came from but thats what I thought.

I thought that as well, which is why I went ahead and procured some.  Found out last trip to faire that the animals (at least for this particular vendor) are bred solely for their fur.  No new tails for me.

This is why I only get fur from second hand cause not buying it isn't going to make it spring back to life and it doesn't go to the demand for fur.Unfortunately Goodwill doesn't usually have tails there  :D I am not anywhere near calling someone who does wear fur a murderer and am fine with people who do wear fur, i just feel very guilty when i do.

Maybe I can "acquire" my brothers...


EDIT:
Ha, is it a cruel irony that right after i posted this the SPCA commercial came on so i changed the channel and it was about the use of animals for food and clothing?
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Tink on June 29, 2010, 09:43:42 PM
Quote from: Becky10 on June 29, 2010, 09:26:04 PM
This is why I only get fur from second hand cause not buying it isn't going to make it spring back to life and it doesn't go to the demand for fur.Unfortunately Goodwill doesn't usually have tails there  :D I am not anywhere near calling someone who does wear fur a murderer and am fine with people who do wear fur, i just feel very guilty when i do.

Maybe I can "acquire" my brothers...

I agree with ya'.  As long as I'm eating them, I'd be a hypocrite saything anything to anyone wearing them.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Molden on June 30, 2010, 10:17:25 AM
I wear 'em becuz they're FUN! 'nuff sed!  :D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Delireus on July 08, 2010, 03:20:52 PM
I found this site from another posting here on RF on a different board :D The circle of links is complete.

Anyways, these are cool looking zibellini furs i think - http://topsyturvydesign.com/catalog.php?item=27&catid=11&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D11 (http://topsyturvydesign.com/catalog.php?item=27&catid=11&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D11) fun stuff
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Toua Taru on August 04, 2010, 06:50:10 PM
I have a fox tail that I've been wearing for a few faires now, it's part of my character, I'm a fox demon of sorts! I've been contemplating on constructing a pair of ears to cover my human ones to complete the effect.

Also, I do enjoy hearing "you have a nice tail" from time to time  ;)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: FortuneRose on September 02, 2010, 02:31:41 PM
My 2 (almost 3) year old loves to wear them because....well, he thinks he is a puppy when he has it on.   ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Toua Taru on September 02, 2010, 05:17:21 PM
Aw I think that's absolutely adorable!! And an excellent excuse to wear one  ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Lady Kathleen of Olmsted on September 06, 2010, 12:09:45 AM


As much as I have seen people wearing furred tails, I have wondered the  same thing.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Luciana on September 06, 2010, 09:53:35 AM
I'm a fur trader so ... of course I wear fur.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: isabelladangelo on September 06, 2010, 10:00:04 AM
A fur trader would have worn clothing lined with fur or had a fur purse/pouch -not just a tail.  Like I've posted months ago now, a fur tail represented a begger/one who was mentally insane in period.  Not something most people would want to be!   It's the precursor to the tin hat.  How else did you keep the aliens away prior to tin foil?  ;)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: TheAlchemistsStar on September 06, 2010, 09:08:54 PM
I have a leather pouch that has a bit of fur attached to the bottom but I don't wear an actual tail myself.  It just doesn't seem very..."me".  I was a bit surprised back in June, however, to find scores of shops in Seoul, Korea with tails of all shapes, colors, and sizes.  Most were priced between 10,000 and 20,000 won (about 1200 won = $1) and had various fur heads with glass eyes attached.  It was a bit creepy. 
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: The Lady Mercedes on September 16, 2010, 05:19:32 AM
I got one not too long ago...I don't know why, but I like it lol. It's gray, dark gray, & white.
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Molden on September 18, 2010, 03:44:49 PM
Whilst being flogged by the Golden Goddess at BARF - she tattered my tail. We've had LOTS of fun with the innuendos/double-entendres about it - 

for instance, I "gave her a tip" when I presented the severed tail tip to her.

for awhile it was in 2 sections - the main coming off the back of my belt, then had a long stringy attachment to a tuft at the end - which of course, I pronounced myself a "poodle"...

And when I got a replacement at Scarby, I removed the damaged tail and hung it off of my cutlass hilt. I called it a pyrates' favorite thing -

a piece of tail on the side!  ;)

As I said - I wear 'em because it's fun.  8)
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: The Other Aenor on April 30, 2014, 12:53:06 AM
Another reason for foxtails from the Middle Ages was something courtesans wore beneath thin, extremely tight gowns to cover their butt-cracks.  ;D No joke; John I (Lackland) was a notorious lecher and had a plethora of court whores, known as courtesans, they were the micro-mini club skanks of their day. Lol. They didn't generally wear an overgown or a long chemise, so navel dimples and everything showed. to cover the booty-cleft, they would align the foxtail right down the crack! The flea idea sounds better, imo!!
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: isabelladangelo on April 30, 2014, 08:04:51 AM
Quote from: The Other Aenor on April 30, 2014, 12:53:06 AM
Another reason for foxtails from the Middle Ages was something courtesans wore beneath thin, extremely tight gowns to cover their butt-cracks.  ;D No joke; John I (Lackland) was a notorious lecher and had a plethora of court whores, known as courtesans, they were the micro-mini club skanks of their day. Lol. They didn't generally wear an overgown or a long chemise, so navel dimples and everything showed. to cover the booty-cleft, they would align the foxtail right down the crack! The flea idea sounds better, imo!!

Sorry, but no.  This is another Renn Faire ism.   Although there is some evidence for all ladies wearing fox tails beneath their gowns in the late 14th century - this was to make a slight bustle affect much like in the late 19th century.  It had nothing to do with courtesans.  Also, King John was early 13th Century.  The dresses of that time always had very, very full skirts. 

Also, PLEASE, double check dates on when a thread was last posted to.  This was last posted to YEARS ago.  I believe there was even another newer thread on this subject just a few months ago.  If anyone wants to bring up the topic again, it's better forum/message board practice to just create a new thread and link back to the old ones. 
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: Rowan MacD on April 30, 2014, 08:44:59 AM
  Isabella- I know what you're talking about , but I think it's part of another one unrelated to this. fox tails and tails only lead back to this thread.   
  Perhaps in Garbing or something like that.  I know the subject came up as recently as 2013.
 
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: isabelladangelo on April 30, 2014, 09:12:30 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on April 30, 2014, 08:44:59 AM
  Isabella- I know what you're talking about , but I think it's part of another one unrelated to this. fox tails and tails only lead back to this thread.   
  Perhaps in Garbing or something like that.  I know the subject came up as recently as 2013.


Found it!

http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php/topic,15625.0.html (http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php/topic,15625.0.html)

July 2013 - which is more recent that 2010.   ;D
Title: Re: Why do people wear fox tails at renaissance faires?
Post by: AngieT on May 01, 2014, 07:41:26 PM
Quote from: Blue66669 on May 11, 2009, 09:00:01 AM
Quote from: Welsh Wench on May 10, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
I wear a tail because I can. I like it.

But my two-pence here--I think any woman worth her independent thinking would balk at wearing a tail to signify they 'belong' to someone.  :)


I may object, depending on whom I was belonging to at the time LOL.

Some men are WORTH belonging to..... *wink*

AGREED!