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Types of Venetian Masks

Venetian masks came out of the Italian Renaissance. The people celebrated Carnival, where everyone wore masks in an effort to provide anonymity. These elaborate masks allowed the public to behave as they normally would not.
  1. Capitano Mask

    • The Capitano is typically only a half mask, covering the forehead, eyes and nose has a long, pointy nose. This brightly colored mask is usually worn by men.

    Jolly Mask

    • The jolly mask portrays a joker and can cover half the face or the whole face. This design is always colorful with curls coming off the top that typically have a bell on the end.

    Cat Mask

    • The cat or gatto mask resembles a cat face, with little ears at the top of the mask. Most often, this mask is only a half-face mask with bright colors.

    Columbina Mask

    • The Columbina mask is a simple mask that only covers the eyes. This mask can either be tied on with a ribbon or held in place with a decorated rod attached to the side of the mask. This style is often embellished with plumes at the top of the mask.

    Bauta Mask

    • The Bauta design is squared on the top and comes to a point at the bottom. This mask covers the whole face and is traditionally worn with a tri-cornered back hat and cape.

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