“Masks” is a fascinating word! Whenever we hear the word mask we think of different colorful faces, emotions, and expressions.“Masks” have its eons-old history and it is a universal feeling shared across cultures throughout human history.

Though some mask ceremonies have died out over the years, there are many cultures that have preserved their traditions and have held onto it.

 

Venetian masks are a centuries-old tradition of Venice, Italy. These masks are typically worn during the carnival but have been used for many other reasons in the past with the main purpose of hiding one’s identity. The Carnival of Venice is a world famous festival known for its elaborate masks. The history of these carnival masks dates back in the year 1162. It is said that the Carnival of Venice was very famous until the eighteenth century. However, under the rule of the King of Austria, the festival was banned entirely in the year1797 and the use of masks became strictly forbidden. It was in 1979 when the Italian government decided to bring back the history and culture of Venice and sought to use the traditional Carnival as the Centrepiece of its efforts. One of the most important events held in the carnival is the contest for “la Maschera più Bella” ("the most beautiful mask") which is judged by a panel of international costume and fashion designers.