Behind the masks, people hide not only their faces, but also secrets. Various mysterious mysterious associations are associated with them. Anything can be hidden behind a mask ...
But also masks are a great accessory for the carnival. It is in this role that they most often occur, excluding the ritual traditions of various tribes. A beautiful carnival mask is a real work of art. In this article we will talk about this accessory, recall its history and some varieties.
The beginning of the story
Masks were originally part of the ritual paraphernalia. Each mask had its own specific meaning and application. Today, many traditions have been preserved, being transformed in a modern way. Next, consider what is the story of the mask of the Venetian carnival.
So, in ancient times, masks served as a way to hide their identity to those who had reprehensible intimate relationships, participated in illegal actions. The first such accessories appeared in Venice several centuries ago.
The decoration of the masks was given great importance. The luxury and beauty with which they shone caused awe.
For the decor, fur, expensive fabrics, precious stones, bird feathers were used. The base was made of papier-mâché. Directly attached to the Venice Carnival (Carnevale) appeared a little later. As attributes of wealth and all sorts of self-praise, masks fit perfectly into these processions, shimmering with all shades of life's pleasures.
Carnival masks
If we discuss carnival masks, then it is worth saying that they appeared some time ago in Venice. We began to wear these accessories a long time ago, and there were many reasons for this.
Masks were worn and for fun, and to hide his face, committing a sin. It happened that the faces of some residents of Venice were hidden for most of the year.
In the 18th century, the fame of Venetian carnivals began to spread throughout Europe. Anyone could take part in them, regardless of social status or origin. Masks for such a motley collection had a certain smoothing function: hiding the persons of their carriers, they allowed people to feel freer.
A variety of masks were made in special workshops. They attached great importance to decoration: rich people could afford to order a unique accessory for the celebration. Masks were made for the carnival with their own hands, and their originality did not suffer at all from this.
Further, we will pay closer attention to certain types of masks, which are widely used due to vivid symbolism.
Bauta - the most popular carnival mask
This type of mask was found most often at the carnival in Venice , and over time it became more and more popular. Bauta served to ensure that the carrier did not advertise its social origin. The mask was used not only in carnival processions.
Bauta, above all, allowed its owner to feel free in any environment. The influence of social norms was not so burdensome, and it was desirable for most of the population. The mask gave freedom in romantic adventures, and often criminal ones.
Bauta has an unusual shape, angular and rigid. The decor somewhat softens the impression, as well as the combination of a mask and a traditional triangular hat. It was in the ensemble with a hat, cloak, and a large satin hood that Bautu was usually worn in Venice. This type of mask is also called Casanova or Larva.
Cats in Venice and Gatto Mask
The appearance of the Gatto mask was facilitated by a colorful story. At that time in the city of magnificent carnivals it was extremely difficult to meet a cat. There was a legend about an old Chinese poor man who came to Venice. Apart from the equally old cat, the man had nothing. But the animal managed to rid the doge's palace of mice , for which the old man was generously rewarded.
The story had a continuation: upon returning home, an old Chinese neighbor set out to bail out much more for luxurious Chinese silk in Venice than for some decrepit cat. And the Doge joyfully agreed to exchange the most expensive in his palace for fabric. This value turned out to be a cat, who thus returned to his native country.
The cat's mask, Gatto, is cute and mischievous. She was willingly used at the carnival.
Jester and Joli
The famous carnival mask depicting a jester in a pointed cap is one of the most popular accessories. It can often be seen as a decorative element due to its unusual shape and adventurous image.
This carnival mask depicts the characteristic type of jesters that existed in Europe during the Middle Ages. At first, it was actively used in theaters in Spain, Germany, Holland, England and other countries. The jesters were treated in a special way: they were considered the owners of an unusual gift of childishness, the bearers of a mixture of madness and courage. They were willingly given money in return for their funny antics.
The Jester mask is always made in bright colors. Small bells were usually attached at the ends of his cap. Other names: Joker, Buffon. The female version of the mask was called Joly.
Ominous Dottore Peste
Perhaps one of the darkest masks of modern carnival. The story of its appearance is connected with the times when Europe suffered from the plague epidemic. Dr. Plague’s mask has a large beak bent down, similar to the mask that was used by doctors of the Middle Ages to protect against infection.
In general, the outfit of Doctor Plague along with Dottore Peste is gloomy and sinister. Looking at this attribute, you can forget that carnival is a mask, smiles, fun, mischief.
DIY masks
At a modern holiday, a carnival mask is very appropriate . New Year's carnivals are rapidly gaining popularity in the post-Soviet space. Children and adults eagerly try on different masks: mysterious Amazons, desperate filibusters, tender fairies, cute animals. Today they can not only be purchased, but also made independently using one of the many techniques.
So, do-it-yourself carnival masks are made from traditional papier-mâché, cast from a thin layer of gypsum. Techniques using liquid silicone are also interesting: with a special gun, the openwork contour of the mask is depicted on a paper blank, and then removed after drying.
Elegant masks are obtained from fabrics. Successfully combine felt, satin, lace, forming bizarre shapes, juggling with color.
Conclusion
That ended our historical excursion during the creation of masks. We examined some variations of this holiday attribute, and found out how many-sided masks can be. For the New Year's carnival, theme party, birthday and any other holiday, you can use these accessories to create the right mood.
We hope that the article was fascinating and useful.