Why do we put on masks at Carnival?
Masks have been used since ancient times for practical and ceremonial purposes. The Greeks, the Egyptians and the Romans were the architects of this complement. During the Middle Ages, there was much fondness for costumes and masks, however, its greatest peak came with the Carnival of Venice . The m
Masks have been used since ancient times for practical and ceremonial purposes. The Greeks, the Egyptians and the Romans were the architects of this complement. During the Middle Ages, there was much fondness for costumes and masks, however, its greatest peak came with theCarnival of Venice.
The mask is one of the best known elements in the Venetian carnival, where children have the last word, since they are in charge of choosing the most beautiful mask of the whole celebration.What is the significance of masks at Carnival?
The masks, together with the disguise, played a key role in this anonymous game in which everyone was the same and nobody knew who was who. The family enjoys parading through the streets in disguise, jokes are spent and everything is allowed. One of the best alternatives to enjoy this Carnival in family is that all the members are disguised of the same theme.
For example, the Flintstones, the Addams family, the Simpsons, the incredible ones, animals, Indians and foreigners, thieves and police, among others. The whole family in disguise will have a great time at this great party.
Types of Carnival masks
The famous Venetian masks were made of leather or papier mâché. The originals were simple in their design and decoration.
Currently they are very elaborate, they contain a lot of feathers and jewels, and those of children are inspired by classic children's drawings.
Even so, throughout the history different kinds of masks have appeared:
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La Bauta: it is a mask that covers the entire face and spills golden color in torrents. Although initially covering the entire face, Bautas can be found covering only the nose and cheeks and allowing easy talking, eating or drinking. They are very suitable for children, since it allows them to express themselves with a certain freedom. Undoubtedly, this will be the one that will most like the children, since it simulates the mask worn by the fox.-
La Moretta: is another type of mask, but unlike the baton, it is oval shaped and decorated with black velvet. The mask is usually finished with a veil. It is the favorite mask of the girls, since the veil makes them look like real fairy princesses.-
The Larva: it is the most traditional of all in the Venetian carnival. It is white and its shape reminiscent of the traditional mask usually worn by ghost costumes, clowns or funny harlequins. With so much variety of masks, there is no excuse for not wearing a mask these Carnivals!Tamara M. Maneiro
. Editor of Guiainfantil.com
