https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Carnival_of_Venice-James_Boldin.ogg

It is said that the carnival of Venice started as a religious victory in 1162. In memory of this victory people started dancing and gathering in Saint Mark’s Square in Venice. However, according to the rule of the king of Australia, the festival was completely outlawed in 1797 and the use of masks was strictly prohibited. The carnival started again in 19797. The Italian government decided to bring back the history and culture of Venice and they tried to use the traditional carnival as the focus of their efforts. Today about 3.000.000 visitors come to Venice every year for carnival. One of the most important events is the competition La maschera più bella (for the most beautifyl mask placed on the most beautiful weekend of the carnival and judgled by an international group of fashion designers.

Andromahi, Vasiliki, Evelyn

How are they made?

Venetian masks are made of leather, papier maché, porcelain or with an original

technique of glass. Originally they were rather simple in design and decoration,

while today they are hand painted and decorated with natural feathers, precious

metals and stones. The designs and colors exceed every imagination and meet every desire.

They are mostly made of gypsum when mass produced.But handmade masks are

truly works of art. They make the plaster mold from which a pulp of paper, rags and

a type of glue takes shape.

When this form is dry, it is covered with a light layer of plaster and then with a base

color for the remaining colors and materials of the mask. The mask is left for hours

to dry after each stage. A laborious and time-consuming process, but this is the only

way to preserve the centuries-old tradition.

Handmade masks are always larger, more fragile and with elaborate decorations

and more expensive materials.

Of course, their prices start at around 100 euros and go up to a few hundred, depending on the size.

Source: https://www.womanidol.com/moda/benetsianikes-maskes-chiropiito-mystirio/

Daphne – Nick