Simply extraordinary craftsmanship in creating Venetian costumery and masks for the annual Carnevale celebration in Italy.
Many things come to mind when we think of Venice, Italy: a city of canals and water, gondola rides, delicious food traditions (risotto, polenta, cicchetti, bacala, gnocchi, tiramisu, Bellini, carpaccio, fritelle, seafood and more), St. Mark’s Square, the domes of cathedrals, Murano glass, amazing architecture, and of course the masks and costumes worn during Carnevale every winter before the season of Lent.
For centuries, it has been traditional and expected to wear elaborate masks during the Carnival of Venice. Wearing masks hides your identity as well as your social status. With this anonymity, a person can mingle with people that they normally would not, as well as act in unconventional ways demanded of their social rank. A person who might have an eye for someone special can engage in playful, romantic situations without their identity being known.
An elaborate costume worn by a Venetian posing in front of the famous Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square
These photos show the incredibly ornate detailed designs. I can’t even imagine the amount of time that the artisans need to complete just one mask or costume. The masks often very brightly colored, but there are also masks and costumes of solid white or black and white. Embellishments of gold or silver, along beads, feathers, flowers, crystals, lace . . . just about anything your imagination can think of decorate the masks. Basing the designs on the baroque style, Venetian masks came from “Commedia dell’arte” and are either cover the entire face (the bauta) or can simply cover one’s eyes alone (the Columbina).
the intricate, fine details of this mask are amazing! What talent exists among these Venetian mask artisans!
Dressing in these exquisite costumes and masks contributes to the excitement and the fun of Venice’s famous carnival. Many people prepare year round for contests, for photographer. People challenge each other to come up with the most creative, outrageous, detailed and beautiful costumes and masks. In St. Mark’s Square people vote for the best costumes and masks of the year. Flags of green are waved in the air for a ‘yes’ vote and flags of red indicate a ‘no’ vote. A panel of designers examine every detail of the competitors and after the final vote, a judge makes the decision for who gets the prized award.
What a beautiful, mesmerizing play of blue hues in this Venetian Carnevale costume. Just stunning in beauty and creativity!
The roses made of fabric on this mask and costume must take hours and hours to create!
The black and white with gold or silver masks are so stunning!
Themes of nature or even food are also used in the costumes and masks.
I can’t decide which color schemes I like the best, but I’m drawn to the blues and purples. What do you think?
masks on display in the square
This costume ensemble has the colors of Mardi Gras: purple, green, and yellow. Love the baby doll!
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
The official website of the Carnival of Venice can be located by clicking on the following link:
http://www.carnevale.venezia.it/en/
February 11, 2017 – February 28, 2017
What gorgeous photos, Roz. I’ve been there a couple of times during Carnevale and there’s a photo op wherever you turn. I’d love to go back some year and relive it all over again.
The masks are gorgeous, Roz! I actually collect them after my husband gave me one many years ago, they all have eyes though 🙂 Sounds like a great carnival in Venice!
Wow, these masks are all lovely pieces of art. I especially like the purple one. xo
The costumes and masks are beautiful and truly shows the talent of the artisans of that region. We love Venice and have to been there numerous times during Carnevale! Gorgeous photos Roz! Have a great weekend!
“sigh” ahhh, to be in Venice for Carnevale! Such gorgeous photos and wonderful colours! I loved Venice when we visited for three short days!
I have not been to Venice for Carnival for so long!! I have forgotten how beautiful it is. I really love your post, these masks look stunning. Great post Roz. Ciao, bacioni 🙂
If tourist come to venice at another time other not during carival, is there a place where they can go to see all of the coustoms & Masks that were worn during Carnival??