The Dance of Death in Basel
Another important part of Basel’s history is the “Dance of Death,” known locally as the Totentanz. First painted in the 15th century, this mural shows Death dancing with people from every level of society — from rulers and priests to merchants, soldiers, and even the young. No one is spared.
A Message That Still Matters
The Basel Dance of Death carries a direct message: status, wealth, rank, title — none of it protects you. Time treats everyone equally. The work became known throughout the region and is considered one of the most significant “Danse Macabre” cycles in Europe.
The scene was originally painted near a former cemetery by a Dominican convent in Basel, and historians connect it to the fears of plague and instability in the late Middle Ages. Only fragments survive today, but the idea is still powerful: stay humble, live honestly, and remember that life is finite.
Why This Inspires Us
This view of time is part of our identity as an independent Swiss watch brand near Basel. “Wicked” does not mean evil — it means unapologetically individual. We believe a watch should reflect character, not status. Time belongs to everyone, not just elites.
If you’d like to read more about the Basel Totentanz (Dance of Death), you can find historical background here (German): https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basler_Totentanz
