Venice Carnival of Hope

It is an annual festival held in Venice city of Italy. The festival is being held in 2022 after a long gap. It was not conducted in the past two years due to COVID.

About the Carnival

The first Carnival of Venice was conducted after the military victory of Venice in 1162. Venice won against Ulrich von Treven. Treven was the Patriach of Aquilea. Aquilea was an ancient Roman city. Patriach is the highest ranking of the bishops. After the victory, the Venetians started dancing together in San Marco Square. The place still exists in Venice. Today it is referred to as la Piazza or simply the Square. The festival became official during renaissance.

What is Shrove Tuesday?

The Venice Carnival ends on Shrove Tuesday. The day is marked by Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Mathodists and Lutherans. On this day, the Christians make self – examination. They list out their wrong doings and repent them. Most of the observers participate in absolution and confession.

Carnival Masks

The masks have been the most important feature of the Venetian festival. The masks are made of porcelain or leather. Earlier the masks were simple and decorative. In modern days, the masks are made of gesso and gold leaf. They are hand painted.

Different Masks used in carnival

Bauta: Bauta is one of the famous masks used in the carnival. Bauta is white in colour. It covers the entire face. It has no mouth. And the mask has a projecting chin line. Bauta is usually worn by men.

Moretta: It is a strapless mask. It has no lips. It has two large eyes. It is mostly worn by women.

Volto: It is a modern Ventian mask. It is usually worn with a cloak or tricorn. It is highly decorated. It is made of porcelain.

Colombina: It is a half mask. It covers only eyes, upper cheeks and nose. It is decorated with crystals, feathers.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2022

Category: Art & Culture Current Affairs