From the 13th century we have the first documentation on the history of carnival masks with news about production, schools and techniques of realization. At that time, the first instruments for the processing of clay, papier-mâché, plaster and gauze, traditionally used in the realization of Venetian masks, make their appearance. The craftsmen who made masks, called masks, were real artists who created more and more detailed and imaginative masks, with drawings, embroidery, beads, feathers and whatnot.
A profession that continues in our day and that keeps the tradition also creating new masks dictated by the creativity of masks. Few are the workshops of masks to visit in Venice that are traditional and artisan: Ca ‘ Macana, with artisanal workshop and Bauta with papier-mâché masks made according to tradition.
In Venice it was custom to use a mask throughout the carnival period, from Boxing Day until midnight on Mardi Gras. The Venetians wore specific masks.
Only from the seventeenth century with the rise of the theatrical companies were born real activities related to the world of theatrical comedy and crafts of costumes and masks. And by this time, with the passing of time, the masks increased and added to the disguises Carnival: Harlequin, Balanzone, Columbine, trousers, etc.
The very definition of Commedia dell’arte was born in Venice around 1750, thanks to Carlo Goldoni who introduced the term. His works were represented during the carnival of Venice. Goldoni’s theatre and carnival are considered a valuable documentary source.
The masks that were usually used, before and after the advent of the Commedia dell’arte, were:
Baùta
It could have two ways of being worn:
Or as a simple mask that conceals the face but allows you to drink and eat (the Baùta mask or larva), or as a complete costume (the Baùta costume) formed by a cloak, or tabarro, of dark color, a black tricorn hat and the larva.
Often used also at the theatre and in the festivities, the Venetian Bauta was brought also in the daily life, to court or be courted in mutual anonymity.
Moretta
A small oval mask in dark velvet, to wear with a hat and refined clothing.
It is distinguished from other traditional Venetian masks to be ‘ mute ‘: The Mask in fact it was held on the face holding an internal button in the mouth.
Originally from France, the moretta quickly spread to Venice because it is particularly suited to feminine features.
Gnaga
Mask used by men to impersonate female figures.
The traditional costume of the Garcia includes feminine clothing and a mask with a cat’s appearance.
During the festivities of the Carnival of Venice, the mask could be completed by a basket under the arm that usually contained a kitten.