Around The World In 5

Across cultures, masks are used for many reasons — for protection, as a disguise, for entertainment and as part of rituals. They have been known to reveal the inner selves of the wearer, or to represent mythical characters, archetypes or personas (mask in ancient Latin means persona). The oldest mask is said to be from 7000 BC. Team Culturama explores the nature of masks across the globe

Venetian Carnival Masks

The Venetian Carnival, celebrated just before Lent, is made unique by the use of masks, a custom said to have originated in the 13th century, used by the revellers to conceal their identity. This helped the different classes to mingle without inhibitions and live their fantasies together. Illicit activities such as gambling, clandestine affairs, political assassinations and dancing and partying the night away were made possible by these masks that were initially simple and made by skilled craftsmen called the mascherari. Masks are an elaborate affair these days, made from a variety of materials right from the inexpensive papier mâché eye masks to porcelain face masks with long noses or elaborate feathers.

Dancing Devils of Yare Masks