Venetian Style Masks
Venetian style masks have been popular throughout the centuries. Today they are best known as a must-have accessory during the week-long celebration before the start of Lent - known as Mardi Gras or Carnivale. During the Medieval and Renaissance Era masks served an important social purpose of keeping every citizen on an equal playing field. Masked, a servant could be mistaken for a nobleman - or vice versa. Masked balls were especially popular during the reign of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Masked balls and parties regained popularity in the early 1800s.
