One of the most well-known Venetian masks, the Bauta mask covers the entire face. Some have been adapted to end above the lips so the wearer can eat, drink and socialize. Bauta masks often have a great deal of gilding on them. The mask has a square top and a pointed bottom and is traditionally worn during Carnevale with a black cloak and a tri-cornered hat. The Bauta mask provides the ultimate anonymity.
The opulent Columbina mask is a small, feminine mask that covers the eyes. Also called the Columbino or the Columbine mask, it is named after a Commedia Dell'arte actress. Legend states that she did not want her beautiful face entirely covered and had the mask designed especially for her face. The Columbina mask is tied with a bright ribbon or is held to the face with a baton. The masked are usually adorned with crystals and/or feathers. During Carnevale, women often wore Columbina masks while dancing.
The mysterious Moretta mask has not been seen much since 1760. The mask is made from a black material, usually velvet, and was made to accentuate the features of a woman's face. The Moretta mask is worn by placing a sewn-on button in between the wearer's teeth. It is very difficult to wear. Women often wore the Moretta mask with a veil to help shroud their identities.
The Volto mask has evolved from a three-quarter mask to a full-face mask. These masks depict white faces and are also called Larva masks because of the ghost-like glow they have. The masks are worn with a tri-cornered hat that is often attached to the mask. Volto masks are constructed with a lightweight wax cloth and are comfortable to wear.
One of the most recognizable Venetian mask is the Medico Della Peste or the Plague Doctor mask. This mask covers the wearer's entire face and has a long, curved beak for a nose. The eyes are curved to give the wearer ideal visibility. A black hat and cloak is worn with the Medico Della Peste. The mask's origins are linked to a 16th century French physician, Charles de Lorme. Dr. de Lorme wore the mask to prevent contracting the plague from his patients.