Four Ways of Looking at a Mask

Image 1 of 4

1. As a Trick
The tradition of masked mischief in Venice began in the 11th century as part of the getup guaranteeing anonymity to boys, whose hobby it was to hurl eggs at young noblewomen. In and out of favor since then, Venetian masks were used to obscure the identity of those testifying in court or to enhance one's outfit for a night on the town. In the 17th century, they were ruled decadent and relegated to Carnevale. Masks disappeared when Napoléon gave Venice to Austria—only to return in the mid-20th century with commedia dell'arte theater. Today, souvenirs like this gold-painted, triple-faced fright are sold all over Venice.