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Venetian Masking
 Venetian masks have a long history of protecting
their wearer's identity during
decadent activities. Made for centuries in Venice,
these distinctive masks were formed from
papier-mâché and wildly decorated with fur, fabric,
gems, or ribbons. Eventually, Venetian masks
re-emerged as the icon of Carnevale, a pageant and
street fair celebrating unbridled joy.
Venetian masks emerged in a climate of cultural and
religious repression during the Medieval era in
Italy. People donned the colorful masks to free
themselves from judging neighbors, all of whom knew
each other in such a small city. The gentry class
and peasants alike sought anonymity for promiscuity,
gambling, and other indiscretions. Even the clergy
were known to dress up to go dancing.
After the 1100s, the masquerade went through periods
of being outlawed by the Catholic Church, especially
during holy days. Their policy lead to eventual
acceptance when they declared the months between
Christmas and Shrove Tuesday free for Venetian
mask-attired decadence. This period evolved into
Carnevale, the pre-Lent celebration meaning, "remove
meat."
Although Carnevale lost popularity as Venice's
cultural production faltered during the
Enlightenment, it was officially reintroduced in
1979.
Mask making has become an art and now you can share
this creative endeavor with your children. Watch how
their eyes light up with all the cool materials they
can use for make their very
own Venetian mask!
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