Such marks are an element of the so-called mensur, a combative masculinity ritual practiced in fencing fraternities. Also known as academic fencing, combatants battle with a sharp blade, leaving parts of their faces unprotected. Rosenkranz has belonged to such a fraternity since his youth.

Oh, yeah, this fits with the Nazi & related fascist fantasies about being descended from “knights” if not nobility. It’s all about the LARP.

As long as the art schools keep their entry standards low we’ll be fine.