A few years ago, I wrote about the Mardi Gras traditions in New Orleans and other parts of the U.S. But since an entire year has gone by, and today is Mardi Gras again, I thought I’d write about the iconic Mardi Gras masks that originated in Venice, Italy.
The Venetian mask and Mardi Gras (called Carnevale di Venezia in Italian) date back to the 12th century, though their popularity peaked during the Renaissance in the 16th and 17th centuries. Originally, these masks were worn during Venice’s Carnival season, those weeks between December 26th and Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. It was also a time when the rigid social hierarchy was temporarily suspended, allowing for greater social interaction and freedom. Masks quickly became a symbol of anonymity, permitting adults to act outside of their usual societal roles without fear of judgment or retribution.
The masks played an essential role in Venice’s everyday life for centuries, especially during the Republic of Venice’s peak. The Venetian Republic was a powerful and wealthy state, and the masks allowed Venetians—especially the nobility—to indulge in various activities (both benign and illicit) while hiding their identities. Each style of Venetian mask had a specific significance and use. Venetian masks were meticulously made and were decorated with gilding, feathers, lace, and intricate patterns. Some of the most iconic types include:
- Bauta: A full-face mask with a prominent, slightly squared chin, covering the entire face. It allowed the wearer to eat and drink without removing the mask. The Bauta was often worn by both men and women to hide their identities during both public and private events.
- Colombina: A half-mask covering only the eyes and nose, often lavishly decorated. It was typically worn by women and represented elegance and mystery.
- Volto (Larva): A white mask that covers the entire face, usually paired with a black cloak. It was another popular style for complete anonymity.
- Moretta: A small, round, black velvet mask traditionally worn by women. It was held in place by a button inside the mouth, making the wearer mute, thus emphasizing the idea of silence and submission.
- Medico della Peste (Plague Doctor): The most famous and recognizable mask, it features a long, beak-like nose and was initially worn by doctors during the Black Death to protect them from illness.
The Carnevale di Venezia began in the Middle Ages and grew in prominence during the 18th century. The word Carnevale is derived from the Latin “carnem levare,” meaning “remove meat,” referring to the celebration that precedes Lent, the 40 days of fasting leading up to Easter in the Christian calendar. The Carnival started as a public celebration before Lent, allowing people to indulge in hedonistic pleasures and grand feasts. It was also a time to relax, eat the last of the stored winter food, and ignore the city’s rigid class hierarchy. Masks allowed nobles to mingle with commoners.
The 18th Century is considered the golden age of Carnevale because it’s when Venice became one of Europe’s most important cities. The lavish celebrations included grand balls, parades, theatrical performances, and gambling. Venetian masks allowed for secrecy and intrigue as well less noble activities like political subterfuge and illicit romantic liaisons.
In 1797, when the Venetian Republic fell to Napoleon Bonaparte, the Austrian and French occupiers banned Carnevale and masks. The new rulers felt that masks were a threat to public order and political stability. For more than a century, Carnevale disappeared from public life in Venice, though Venetians continued celebrating it in private. It wasn’t until 1979 that Carnevale was revived by the tourist industry, hoping to entice people to visit the city. Now the Venice Carnival is world-famous and attracts thousands of visitors annually. The event runs for two weeks before Ash Wednesday and is filled with masked balls, processions, concerts, and public festivities.
In the 21st Century, Carnevale di Venezia features elaborate costumes and masks, often inspired by Baroque and Rococo styles, as well as historical figures from Venice’s past. The masks are a key part of the celebration, symbolizing not only mystery and elegance but also a connection to the city’s history of freedom, creativity, and artistry. But because it is now a huge spectacle, with acrobats descending from the Campanile in St. Mark’s Square, the Italian government is trying to figure out ways to limit tourism to the city due to the toll all these people and their merry-making are taking on the historic buildings.
While both Mardi Gras in New Orleans and Venice Carnival share roots in pre-Lenten festivities, Venice’s Carnevale is still known for its historical elegance and mask-making artistry. Meanwhile, Mardi Gras in New Orleans is more boisterous and focused on street parades, beads, and jazz music. I’ve been to New Orleans and Venice, but never during Mardi Gras due to the fact I don’t love huge crowds. But one day it might be fun to attend Mardi Gras and Carnevale to compare their festivities… and their masks.
