Masks III

The original masks were rather simple in design, decoration, and often had a symbolic and practical function. Venetian masks can be made of leather, porcelain or using the original glass technique. Nowadays, most Italian masks are made with the application of gesso and gold leaf and are hand-painted using natural feathers and gems to decorate. However, this makes them rather expensive when compared to the widespread, low-quality masks produced mainly by American factories. This competition accelerates the decline of this historical craftsmanship peculiar to the city of Venice.