Venetian Commedia Dell'Arte Mask on a Handle. The deep red main face of the mask is decorated with pink swirls and a candy cane-like ribbon that encircles the whole piece. The handle is similarly painted with whimsical decorative curls. An informative label attached to the handle explains the manufacturer and the origins of the piece. 

Size: 18 x 6 in. 

Venetian masquerade masks originated in ancient times in Venice, initially to conceal identity for various activities, and became a symbol of the Venetian Carnival, which was a period of celebration and anonymity for all social classes. Masks provided a temporary reprieve from social restrictions, allowing people to mingle freely regardless of status, though this led to a rise in public disorder and crime. The tradition continued for centuries, influenced by Commedia Dell’Arte and prevailing fashion norms, with mask-wearing even used for political voting and as a fashion statement, but was suppressed in 1797 by Napoleon. The tradition experienced a revival in the 1970s, and masks are now a renowned symbol of Venice and a popular craft sold to tourists worldwide. 

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