Contrary to popular belief, the costumes and masks of Halloween have nothing to do with the origins of masquerade masks. Halloween masks and traditional masquerade masks are separated by continents and centuries. While both types of masks have become synonymous with Halloween, Venetian masquerade masks do not historically belong. Halloween masks were traditionally a part of a Celtic festival of mumming or traveling from house to house in disguise gathering food. The purpose of the disguise was for protection from the souls of the dead. The Celtic variety of mask is more in line with what is used for the traditional North American Halloween. The history of masquerade balls and masks come from an earlier time and for an entirely different purpose.
What Is a Masquerade Ball?
Masquerade balls began in the late 1300s, were held at night and included music, and dancing for both entertainment and celebration purposes. Some historical accountings of masquerade balls state two very different reasons for having such balls. The reason that was more acceptable for that time period was Lent and what we know as Fat Tuesday. Back then the ball was a time to over-indulge and behave in ways that would not be allowed during the 40-day Lent season. The second reason was that with masquerade masks, societal rules could be bent or ignored. This meant that the upper-crust could take part in behavior considered unseemly.
The History of Masquerade Masks
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Understand that in earlier times there was a clear distinction between classes and a firm understanding of societal norms. Upper-class and lower-class had few reasons to socialize. Both classes were expected to be chaste, refrain from imbibing spirits or alcohol and maintain good standing with their church. Celebrations were muted affairs where class distinctions were abided and young ladies were appropriately chaperoned. During a proper masquerade ball, these societal rules were still applied. While there was an air of revelry and dancing, it was a more social affair and a chance to have some harmless fun.
Some took advantage of the anonymity that the masquerade masks gave them. People could drink and be merry and engage in risque behavior without fear of punishment. It was also exciting to attend a masquerade ball and try to guess the identity of the other patrons. Masquerade masks also had a political purpose. When there needed to be a decision, masks were worn to protect the identity of those voting. Mask were also worn for medical purposes. There were some that were created to allow doctors to breathe fragrant flowers to mask the stench of illness and decay. Other masquerade masks were worn based on a person’s profession or standing in society.
Masquerade masks are created in several styles. The Bauta is similar to the look of a Punch and Judy puppet. The entire mask is white with a jutting, pointed chin and nose. While the entire mask covered the face, they were created to enable eating and drinking. The two types of masquerade masks that most are familiar with are the Colombina and the Arelcchino. The Colombina is the typical half-mask that only covers the nose and checks and with openings for the eyes. The Arelcchino is what we know as a harlequin mask that fully covers the face, with a white base and with intricate designs done in any variety of colors.
10 Amazing Masquerade Masks Designs
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For both men and women, masquerade masks can be very simplistic or extremely elaborate. Below are ten masks, five for men and five for women, that are fantastic and all are in the classical Colombina half-mask style and in a variety of motifs. While the masks are separated into male and female, any mask could be worn by either gender. What is important is overall fit and the proper eyehole openings.
Five Amazing Masquerade Masks for Men
1. Antique Gold/Black Roman/Greek Men’s Venetian Mardi Gras Party Masquerade Mask
This inexpensive mask is great for casual parties. Antique gold black mask with raised designsFeatures ribbon ties for comfortable wearVery thin and lightweight plastic bodysize :3-3.75″ x 6.5″.Sku #12563#{3}
This mask is in a Roman/Greek style and made of inexpensive plastic. The mask ties with a ribbon. The reviews of this mask are mixed as some appreciated the cost regardless of the material construction, and others felt the mask did not hold up well because of the material used.
2. Casanova Silver Men’s Masquerade Mask
- Classic Italian Masculine Shape for formal or casual wear
- High Quality and Fabric Lined for Comfort
- Nice mask for various costumes to hide your identity
- Lightweight and Comfortable to wear, leaves your mouth free to party
- Made in Italy especially for Success Creations
This is a sturdy mask made in the traditional Italian style. There is added comfort with a durable lining on the inside of the mask and held in place with an elastic band. There can be an issue with fit if the man wearing has a smaller, or narrower, nose.
3. Forum Novelties Men’s Venetian Style Jester Mask
- Extra 10% discount on this painted art mask, it is quite admirable with the classic details hand painted, it can be hung on a wall as decoration or worn using black ribbon attached on each side of the face.
- Material: high quality eco-friendly resin, brocade, glitter, faux pearls and small bells
- The venetian men mask is perfect for many occasions, such as Halloween decorations, masquerade parties, carnivals, costume party, festivals, carnival theme parties, formal balls, tricks or receptions, cosplays, fashion shows, beauty contests, New Year parties, bridal showers or other occasions.
The jester’s mask is in the old style of Venice with a lot of detail and embellishment. There are two cloth-covered rubber straps that hold the mask in place. The one issue with this mask is that it needs to be removed to eat and drink.
4. Vintage Gorgeous Venetian Mardi Gras Masquerade Fancy Mask
- High Quality MaterialCoxeer roman masquerade mask made of hard plastic, which looks awesome and remains friendly to people and the environment.
- Comfortable To WearUnlike other masquerades roaming the markets, this one is non-allergenic and lightweight for comfortable and long hour wearing.
- One Size Fits MostWith two ribbon ties, the mask easily stays in good position and can be adjusted for custom fit.
Though this mask has a look of fragility, it is sturdily constructed. Several reviews agree that this is a beautiful, even classy, choice but the color that is shown is not the color received.
5. Gold Metal Venetian Half Mask
Xvevina Luxury Mask, assorted Venetian Party Mask, Assorted top grade colorful masks for all party occasions. Mardi gras, prom, masquerade parties, and ball, Several colors are great for weddings.
This is a very simplistic half-mask. It comes in a variety of colors but the gold one is the masquerade mask that is meant for a man. The mask is held in place with ribbons and that is the only issue brought up in reviews. The ribbons are very silky and make it difficult keeping the mask in place.
Five Amazing Masquerade Masks for Women
1. Luxury Mask Women’s Laser Cut Metal Venetian Masquerade Mask
This mask is perfect for any theme party. Its unique laser cut metal design and rhinestone detail is sure to draw attention and get you noticed great for wall decor as well
A lovely choice, with plenty of options. This mask comes in over 15 different color combinations and is made of a metal material, accented with colored stones. Reviewers mentioned the eye holes are smaller than normal.
2. Luxury Mask Women’s Swan Metal Filigree Laser Cut Venetian Masquerade Mask
Perfect for masquerade, mardi gras, wedding, prom, fashion shows and costume party. Stand out with our amazing colors, you will definitely gets lots of attention.
A beautiful option that can be easily customized. One of the eyes is uniquely cut in the shape of a swan. While this is a delicate, and lovely masquerade mask, reviewers voiced concern about the edges being easily caught in hair.
3. Shiny Metal Rhinestone Venetian Masquerade Mask
XVEVINA One Pair Halloween Masquerade Mask for Couples Glitter Butterfly Decoration, this pair of Masquerade mask for couple is lovely comfortable around the eyes and not too small so it doesn’t squash your face.
This masquerade mask is a simple mask of metal and plastic design and accented with rhinestones. There are several color and style options. A review of the mask notes that users had an issue with the ribbons staying tied and the eye holes are too small.
4. Luxury Mask Women’s Signature Phantom Of The Opera Venetian Mask
This deluxe, venetian-style decor mask features intricate glitter, or crystals, rhinestones and designs, large stylish feather plumes will surely make you stand out stylishly. All of the masks are handmade and intricately designed offering each a unique flair.
There is nothing as classical in the world of masquerade masks as the Phantom of the Opera half-mask. This particular option is offered in several colors with rhinestones. Reviewers mentioned the rhinestones are sharp enough to scratch the face.
5. Luxury Mask Women’s Laser Cut Metal Crown Venetian Masquerade Mask
This mask is perfect for any theme party. Its unique laser cut metal design and rhinestone detail is sure to draw attention and get you noticed great for wall decor as well
This masquerade mask is one of the simpler options that can be enhanced with feathers, sequins, and beads. For the cost, reviewers noted multiple issues including stones missing from the mask and not being able to secure the mask fully in place.
Conclusion
The history of masquerade masks is one that is rich. History tells of the practicality of doctors wearing masks for protection from the diseases of their patients. Other accounts relate how socialites wanting a way to partake of their particular vices wore masks without their identities being detected. And while there was a time in Venice that the use of masquerade masks was prohibited, they are now used for a variety of purposes. You can see masquerade masks on mummers and beautiful dancers during Carnivale in several countries such as Brazil. Masquerade masks can be found at Halloween parties and in nefarious plots in a variety of movies.
When choosing a masquerade mask to wear, there are several things to know. First, masks are constructed of flexible types of metals or plastics, rather than of cloth as they historically were. Depending on the cut of the metal and the decoration added, there can be issues with the mask getting caught in hair or causing scratches. Be aware that masks are typically made in one size and might need minor adjustments to fit comfortably. Finally, have fun with it! Research the different types of masks and find one that will prompt conversation or that you can change and personalize
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