What culture are Venetian masks?

Venetian masks are a centuries-old tradition of Venice, Italy. The masks are typically worn during the Carnival (Carnival of Venice), but have been used on many other occasions in the past, usually as a device for hiding the wearer’s identity and social status.

Where are Venetian masks made?

Venice
We can vouch for the fact that these Venetian Masks are authentic and all hand made in Venice.

Who made Venetian masks?

A document, now in Correr Civic Museum in Venice, indicates that between 1530 and 1600 eleven craftsmen were registered in this guild as “mascherer” – even including a woman named Barbara Scharpetta. They were joined in their art work by “targheri” – craftsmen who created new “faces”.

Why are Venetian masks important?

During the Venice Carnivals in the past the streets of Venice were full of the people wearing masks which allowed them to protect their identity and remove any social differences. Besides, masks allowed a wearer hide his identity during licentious and dissolute activities.

Why were masks banned in Venice?

This was due to the fact that the masks were often used to hide their identity and to carry on some dirty business or illegal relationship. The mask was a sign of freedom and transgression of all social rules imposed by the Venetian Republic.

What does the long nose mask represent?

The long nose would hold herbs and flowers that would filter the air and cover up the horrible smells of plague victims. It’s usually worn with a long black coat, white gloves, and a staff to complete the plague doctor uniform.

What is the symbolic meaning of a mask?

Masks usually represent supernatural beings, ancestors, and fanciful or imagined figures, and they can also be portraits. The localization of a particular spirit in a specific mask must be considered a highly significant reason for its existence.

What is the history of Venice?

Uniquely among Italy’s chief cities, Venice came into being after the fall of the Roman Empire in the West. The Lombard hordes, whose incursions into northern Italy began in ad 568, drove great numbers of mainlanders onto the islands of the lagoon, previously the homes of itinerant fishermen and salt workers.

What is the origin of the mask?

In China, masks are thought to have originated in ancient religious ceremonies. Images of people wearing masks have been found in rock paintings along the Yangtze. Later mask forms brings together myths and symbols from shamanism and Buddhism.

What do Venetian masks represent?

Venetian masks were traditionally worn to protect the identity of the wearer and were eventually worn during the Venetian Carnival. The masks are divided into two categories: Commedia dell’ Arte masks and Carnival masks.