Leopold Mozart House Augsburg

Special exhibition 13 May 2022 - March 2023

"PLEASING TO THE EAR AND DELIGHTING TO THE SOUL".

The "Augsburg Table-Confect" Valentin Rathgeber (1682 - 1750)

The Benedictine monk Valentin Rathgeber was one of the most influential and productive composers of the first half of the 18th century in Southern Germany. The exhibition focuses on his Augsburg Tafel-Confect, which was published in several parts by Lotter-Verlag from 1733 on. These are collections of songs with humorous, sometimes mocking lyrics, intended to accompany the sweet conclusion of a meal. The exhibition offers a biographical overview of the fascinating personality of Rathgeber and an orientation about his work. In addition, the food culture of the time will be taken into account. Which sweet delicacies could Augsburg citizens* enjoy at that time? How can one imagine a meal at the end of which the table confect could be used? What did people eat with? Original editions of the Tafel-Confect are shown, and selected songs can also be heard. Prints from the 18th century illustrate the theme of food and music. Copies of two successful cookbooks of the time, also published by Augsburg's Lotter-Verlag, provide insights into the kitchens. A so-called mouthpiece made of gilded silver represents the material side of table and dining culture. Quotations from Leopold Mozart's travel letters throw light on culinary reality - from the Versailles Court to the simple inn.