The modern revival of masquerade masks is deeply rooted in craftsmanship and the artistic qualities of the masks. While these agents of disguise originated in Venice they have been welcomed in other parts of the world including the rest of Europe and the Americas. Each region has its own style and culture surrounding these masks.
When masquerades were popular, Venetian mask-makers, or maschereri, established a guild in the early 15th century and began producing decorative masks. Attention to detail was a critical part of creating these masks and there was a range of types and styles.
There are three different types of masks including the Bauta, Moretta and Larva.
- Bauta: These masks were originally created for the Carnival and they come in two forms. One covers the entire face while the other covers the upper area of the face.
- Moretta: These masks originated in France and were constructed using black velvet. They were worn by women who visited convent and were attached to a veil.
- Larva: Also known as the volto, these masks were typically white and originated in Venice. The shape is similar to the Bauta but the mask itself is made of wax cloth. They were more comfortable for dancing, eating and mingling.
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The original mask was created by Venetians and the mask-makers used two different methods. Papier mache was the first method which combined glue and paper strips to form the shape of the mask. These masks were generally designed to be held by a stick and to only cover the eyes. In order to create full-face masks, the artists used clay to produce molds. The mask-makers applied specialized paint and added all sorts of decorative elements including gems, beads, ribbons, natural feathers and dazzling gold leaf.
Color was a significant part of the design. Bright blues, reds, yellows, oranges and greens were the most common choices. Generally, males would wear darker colors while women would wear lighter ones. Customized masks were also possible, resulting in a vast array of unique masquerade masks. The masks were accompanied by highly elaborate and ornamental masquerade costumes during the celebrations.
The original masks were symbolic and simple. Over time, masquerade masks became more and more complex. Masquerade masks have not only been used for entertainment but they have also allowed people to hide their identities in order to participate in various activities including romantic ventures and even crime.
While Mardi Gras masks are being mass produced in modern times, thousands of people continue the tradition of creating handmade masks. This is an art form that has passed down from one generation to another and one culture to another. One can find original Mardi Gras masks from all parts of the world as collectible items or to wear during masked festivals.
Elegant His & Hers Masquerade Ball masks for sale. These beautiful matching masks are great for Masquerade Balls and Mardi Gras Parties. These masks are usually silver or gold and are adorned with feathers for the ladies.
Mardi Gras Wand Masks, also known as Stick Masks, for sale from around the world. A Mardis Gras mask on a wand is an elegant accessory for any kind of party. These beautiful and sophisticated masks won't mess up your hair and save you from the discomfort of a retaining strap.
The wand mask is also known as the Columbine or Columbina mask. They are usually half masks and highly embellished with gold and other metals and feathers. The stick portion of these masks is used to hold the mask up to one's face. The Columbine, or wand mask was made popular by an actress named Columbina in the Commedia Dell'arte. Legend has it that the wand mask was designed for her because she was so beautiful that she did not want to completely cover her face when wearing a mask.
The harlequin has been a central character in many theatrical performances including the Commedia dell’Arte and is one of the more mystical and fantasy-like characters in literature. The origin of the harlequin dates back to the 16th century. He is distinctly known for his dynamic outfit and personality.
Disguising one’s identity with elaborately painted masks was a significant part of the late 13th Century. Venice was the birthplace of the masquerade and the masks played a central role in society. Beginning on the day of Santo Stefano and ending at midnight of Shrove Tuesday, citizens of Venice would dress in fanciful outfits and eloquent masks to join together in celebration. As masquerade masks became increasingly popular, the mask-makers soon took up their own space in society and became members of a guild.
Mardi Gras is a pre-Lent festival that celebrates humanity in disguise on the international level. From Europe to the Caribbean and the United States to Canada, Mardi Gras is a day of celebration right before Shrove Tuesday, or Ash Wednesday. The earliest accounts of Mardi Gras took place during the 14th and 15th century in Europe.
