Venetian masks in the interior. Venetian masks in history and interior

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It is unlikely that I will tell you anything new by calling Venice an unusual city. Its difference from other cities is a well-known fact, and it manifests itself in almost everything: from its unique location to souvenirs that are so different from the standard tourist set. You can bring absolutely amazing things as a souvenir of Venice - sparkling Murano glass, the most delicate lace from Burano, stationery“antique” and, of course, masks - a symbol of the carnival that made Venice famous throughout the world.

For many centuries, carnival and masks were an integral part of Venetian life, although (strangely enough!) they were not always connected. Both of them date back to pre-Christian times - even the ancient Romans, celebrating the fertility holiday - Saturnalia, used masks. Masks not only hid the faces of those celebrating, but also erased social boundaries, making free and slaves equal during the fun. It is generally accepted that the first Venetian carnival took place in 1094, although other dates are also given. After a couple of centuries, the carnival becomes an annual event taking place before the long period of Lent. By the way, in the first centuries of the carnival, the Venetians did not wear masks or special costumes during the holiday, but simply had fun. But in subsequent centuries, masks became so popular that they were worn even without carnival.

Lovers who did not want to advertise their relationship, and noble townspeople who visited gambling houses and other dubious places hid their faces under masks. Sometimes the real criminals were hidden under the guise. The masks were in great demand, and the artisans who made them were no less famous than the Murano glassblowers or the Burana lacemakers.

Several times the city authorities tried to ban the wearing of masks outside the carnival, but the Venetians persistently violated the law. Masks disappeared from the everyday life of the Venetians around the end of the 18th century, when, having experienced rapid prosperity, the Venetian carnival ceased to exist. And the famous carnival was revived not so long ago - a little over thirty years ago. And it immediately became an event that attracted thousands of tourists to the city on the water. Yes, it became part of tourism business, but carnival Venice in festive decoration is so good, alive and spontaneous that you can ignore everything else.

While not all city guests can come to the carnival, you can admire the variety of masks at any time of the year. Carnival masks for every taste and budget are sold literally at every turn, but it is better to look for a truly Venetian product in special workshops, where beautiful papier-mâché or leather masks are made in the same way as centuries ago.

There are many types of Venetian masks, and it is absolutely impossible to show them all. But I will still allow myself a short excursion. For a long time Masks of commedia dell'arte, a special street theater that arose in Italy during the Renaissance, were extremely popular. This is Pantalone, and Brighella, and Harlequin, and the Captain, and the Doctor, and Pulcinella in various variations and, of course, female character- Columbine.

Nowadays, these characteristic masks, simple in design, are not particularly popular with buyers; only collectors are interested in them. The exception is Columbine's half mask. However, look at how bright multi-colored products decorated with beads, rhinestones and lush feathers differ from a simple black half mask.

Another group of Venetian masks are those that arose over the many centuries of the existence of the carnival. The simplest of them is Bauta, which repeats the shape human face. Combined with a black hat and a long black cloak, it made the perfect costume for a man who wanted to remain unrecognized (Venice is not very Big city!) In such a mask, the voice changed, which added anonymity to its owner. The mask with a black cocked hat is called Bauta Casanova - in honor of the same Casanova who, when going in search of adventure, preferred to wear just such an outfit.

The Venetian Lady is a beautiful mask depicting a beauty from the heyday of Venetian power. Feathers, jewelry, gilding, various hairstyles and exquisite headdresses are her distinctive features. The more magnificent and luxurious - the better! It is not surprising that this mask is also loved by modern carnival participants.

Such a black mask these days is only made on special orders. But Moretta (or the Dumb Maid) was once one of the most popular! The mask is designed in such a way that the woman wearing it cannot speak - the fastening of the mask must be clamped with the teeth. They say that Moretta was especially appreciated by Venetian husbands, tired of women's chatter.

The terrible mask of the Plague Doctor has an equally terrible origin. In the Middle Ages, the plague was one of the most devastating disasters - it sometimes wiped out entire cities and emptied countries. This type of mask was actually worn by doctors during epidemics, wrapped in a long cloak and carrying a long stick so as not to touch the sick with their hands. Fragrant oils were placed in the long hooked nose of the mask and medicinal herbs– to protect against infection and not to feel the stench. These days, this mask is simply extremely popular - everything terrible people For some reason it attracts!

Volto's mask, also known as Citizen, is also very famous. This type of mask could be worn by representatives of all classes (hence the “democratic” name). Simple in form, it represents ideal field for creativity modern masters. After all, you can paint and decorate such a mask in a variety of ways!

One of my favorite masks (I'm sure you already guessed it) is Cat. There is an unlikely legend about a cat, brought from China, who caught all the mice in the palace Doge of Venice and became a local celebrity. True, then the cat returned to his homeland anyway - they paid for expensive Chinese silks as the greatest value. I don't know what about exactly Chinese cat, but in Venice there were actually few cats of their own (and there were more than enough mice). And the mask is very cute, isn't it?

No medieval holiday, be it in a royal palace, a noble house or in a city square, was complete without a jester. Therefore, the Jester mask (there are many variations of names) is one of the most famous at the Venetian carnival. Her main attribute is a long cap, to the ends of which are attached bells that ring with every step. This mask was accompanied by a matching costume made from bright multi-colored scraps.

The variety of Venetian masks is truly endless. In addition, modern artists (there is no other way to call it), while preserving ancient traditions in technology, keep up with the times in subject matter. Nowadays you can find masks in the form of aliens, goblins, elves, sea monsters and heroes of modern cinema! There are also products based on famous works of painting or evoking historical and literary characters. There are also unique masks born from the unbridled imagination of artists.

In addition to laconic leather and richly decorated papier-mâché masks (which, by the way, are often artificially “aged”), in Venice you can find items made of ceramics, porcelain and even metal. These are so-called interior masks designed to bring a little Italian flavor into our home. Indeed, having bought a mask in Venice, you can use it not only for its intended purpose, wearing it at the carnival, or as a souvenir reminiscent of beautiful city, but also “make it work” to decorate the house. By the way, such masks do not have to be brought specifically from Venice; they can be bought in other countries. And many artists (including in Russia) create, although not real “Venetian”, beautiful artistic masks “in the style” that can add a special touch to the design of any interior.

When choosing a mask to decorate your home, you can focus on an existing design, or, on the contrary, you can play up the purchase by making changes to the design. Any mask will do - the main thing is that you like it! Or it suited your character and your outlook on life (a mask can tell a lot about its owner!).

Venetian masks look very good in combination with antique mirrors, exquisite curtains and porcelain, glass or matching style. small plastic. But also in modern interior, devoid of all sorts of “dust collectors” and “trinkets”, they can become an interesting contrasting note.

In my opinion, wall-mounted Venetian masks are good both on their own and in frames that suit the style.

Paired masks, matched by theme or color, can become a bright accent in the living room, dining room and even the kitchen. What do you think of these options?

Or you can create a whole composition from similar masks. True, it seems to me that in this case it is better to use miniature products so as not to overload the interior.

I really liked this original solution for the bedroom. Very Venetian...

And in this interior, where the main role is played by a chest of drawers painted with Italian motifs, a small mask along with candles and a figurine of an angel makes the composition complete.

Fun miniature masks on stands can serve as cute decorations dressing table or chest of drawers. As they say, options are possible!

If you are confused by the idea of hanging masks on the walls (I have often come across the opinion that this is bad omen), and you like the carnival mood, you can use accessories in the style of “Venetian masks” in the interior. I especially liked the table - I wish I could find one like that!

And for needlewomen (of whom I know there are many here!) I can offer a sketch of an embroidery depicting the Venetian carnival.

In our house, Venetian masks are used to decorate the so-called “art corner” (my husband’s term). I admit, I bought all this without any ideas - simply because I liked it. But now it seems to me that my most favorite albums (and many of them are devoted to Italian painting and architecture) fit well in such an environment.

What do you think of Venetian masks? Would you “let” them into your home?

Svetlana Vetka , especially for Etoya.ru

Photo: author, venetianmasks.eu, cartaalta.com, magicofvenezia.com, quirao.com, simplymasquerade.co.uk, ebaumsworld.com, lamanomasks.com, soundcloud.com, bu.edu, karnavalmasok.ru, moikompas.ru, ya-ru.ru, sob.ru, livemaster.ru, moy-design.ru, decor4all.com, vorotila.ru, artitalia.org, tampra.com, wayfair.com, interiordesignpro.org, decorator.yapokupayu.ru, specialitaveneziane.it, italychronicles.com, axsoris.com, interiorsonline.com.au, xrest.ru

The mood of the room is set by accessories, which is why designers devote so much time and effort to their harmonious selection. Manufacturers do not limit the flight of imagination: small souvenir shops and famous interior salons offer an abundance of paintings, tapestries, figurines and decorative tableware for every taste. Some of these lots are familiar and do not raise questions, but some are puzzling: the frightening grins of ethnic souvenirs and the risk of not comprehending the hidden symbols sacred meaning- serious arguments to refuse the purchase exotic decoration. WESTWING shopping club consultants will tell you how to correctly place ethnic masks in interior decor and which images should be avoided.

The meaning of masks in the culture of different nations

Modern man has quickly freed himself from the superstitions of his ancestors: placing ethnic masks in interior decor, many do not even try to comprehend their meaning in pursuit of an attempt to create a fashionable ethnic look for the room. For ancient man, and for many indigenous peoples who have not yet been absorbed by civilization and have preserved the centuries-old traditions of their unique culture, the mask is a cult object that requires special veneration. The mask is an element of the most complex and significant rituals in a person’s life: welcoming a baby into the world, seeing off the deceased to the kingdom of shadows, gathering a hunter-breadwinner for prey and handing over a girl to her husband’s family. In grief and joy, the mask accompanies the inhabitants of the African continent, Indian tribes and northerners, that is, mainly residents of regions that are heavily dependent on Mother Nature and her whims.

Skeptics may argue that a resident of a metropolis, more dependent on traffic jams and cellular reception, does not necessarily understand the meaning of a particular symbol inscribed on an African or Egyptian wooden plate. In some ways, this opinion is correct. But for those who periodically look into the horoscope or know exactly how mirrors should be hung in the house in accordance with the flow of Feng Shui, knowledge of how to correctly place ethnic masks in interior decor so as not to anger the spirits supposedly living in these ethnic -souvenirs.

African masks: how to bring the favor of spirits into the interior, not a curse

African masks are a large and diverse group, unlike any other or even geographically related accessories of religious objects. In an ethno-interior of the appropriate style, they look somewhat mystical and even frightening. Dark wooden sculptures, shiny with oil, fascinate with their empty eye sockets, not allowing you to look away. The most common groups of African masks brought by tourists from the hot continent:

artisanal, agricultural, called fertility masks;
military;
animalistic, designed to pacify the beast;
ritual.

Ritual masks are not recommended for use as decoration living rooms. Her characteristic features- red eyes of the images and emphatically evil grins with animal features. Beliefs warn of the opening of a portal to the land of spirits for those who wear such an image, so people who do not have shamanic skills are not recommended to touch such objects.

Absolutely safe and even useful, if you believe the legends of African peoples, are fertility masks, which in some sources are also interpreted as masks of male and female fusion. Their characteristic difference is the use of nature colors in decoration: white, blue or blue and green. Drops, as a symbol of life-giving rain, are also a sure sign of a mask invoking the favor of the spirits.

Military and animal masks African style allows without restrictions: they are considered neutral and do not carry a mystical load. This is a kind of masquerade that allows a warrior and a fellow tribesman pretending to be an animal to tell their neighbors about their exploits and boast to their future bride of their merits in the hunting field. Masks with the image of a tiger or lion, as well as images of faces with with open eyes framed by a small pattern - an excellent wall accessory for both the living room and the office, the owner of which wants to emphasize the originality of his hobbies.

Egyptian masks: worship of beauty

These images are completely different from African masks: there are no frightening grins, the materials are filigree processed and richly decorated. In the Egyptian style, masks, although also accompanying the deceased, recall their earthly life and physical beauty. Popular images, recognizable at first sight, are the faces of pharaohs and legendary beauties, optimally fitting into richly decorated interiors of the corresponding style. Nefertiti and Ramses are unique symbols of beauty and wealth, respectively; placed on the wall, this is exactly the message they convey. Egyptian masks go perfectly in the interior with glossy mosaics, unlike African, the best background for which are matte textures decorative plaster. But the wooden sculptures of the dark continent, often decorated with twine or cords, contrast well with the fur, which looks out of place in the style of pyramids and sands.

Venetian masks: behind-the-scenes secrets of Italy

We can talk about the Venetian carnival for hours, as well as about the masks that are displayed there. Surprisingly, Italy was able to preserve the spirit of the era of the famous conquerors of ladies' hearts and their lovers: traditional masks confidently fight with the new model, no matter how spectacular it may be.

Going to a souvenir shop for a wall or desktop artifact from Italy, it is worth giving preference to the classic images associated with the amazing city of canals and gondolas. In order to buy ethnic masks in accordance with traditions, you need to study at least a little the classics of Italian culture. Masks of pigs, tigers and owls, decorated with rhinestones and textiles, although they look decorative, have minimal relevance to the history of Italian art. Traditional figures of the Renaissance: Harlequin, Columbine, Doctor, Captain and others will more accurately complement the interior in Italian style. These spectacularly decorated masks go well with high-quality textiles, wall paintings, curvaceous furniture and paintings in bulky inlaid frames. The optimal complement to the collection of masks from Venice placed on the walls will be mirrors.

Placing masks in the interior

There are not many options for the arrangement of the ethnic collection:

on the walls;
on shelves;
on chests of drawers or wall tables.

In the latter case, you will have to worry about purchasing decent stands in order to firmly secure the artifacts in the viewing area. Placement on the wall will only require good fastenings so that massive accessories do not fall. The background can be any wallpaper of a suitable texture, but its design should not distract from the main emphasis. For African motifs, a sand theme is perfect, and for Venice, a stripe with a gilded border. In the latter case, the masks can even be centered relative to the stripes, once again emphasizing the diversity of Italian roles.

Large masks are placed separately, ensuring sufficient visibility for each element. Small ones can be placed in a group, for example, in a checkerboard pattern above a sofa or in diameter above a desk. There is no point in trying to place an extensive collection on one wall: a clutter of elements will not allow you to sufficiently appreciate each of the objects. If the collection includes many copies, you can take care of a special rack, the cells of which will be equipped with informative signs for less erudite acquaintances.

A mask cannot exist in the interior by itself: it is an important and spectacular accent, but in the absence of support in the form of other accessories, it will look out of place and even stupid. Huge selection worthy partners from the ethno-collections of leading designers can be found and purchased in the catalogs of partners of the WESTWING shopping club. And on the pages of this interior guide you can find thousands of tips on organizing stylish interior in any style from classic to avant-garde.

While creating classic interiors The final fashionable touch will be Venetian masks on the wall. The tradition of using masks as wall decor came from the century before last from Italy.

Today, if you don’t see a Venetian mask on the wall in every home, you can certainly see it in the apartment of those owners who appreciate the beauty and elegance of their surroundings.

Initially, Venetian masks were widely used in Venice at the annual carnival. It is unknown when this tradition began, but all residents of Venice took part in the street festivities: both ordinary poor people and people of high classes.
Masks helped the latter to remain incognito on the streets and blend in with the crowd, have fun and walk along with commoners, remaining unrecognized. In this way, many destinies were formed, many marriages were created among the Venetians of that time.
In 15th-century Italy there was even a special profession - mask maker. By the way, the masks themselves were not divided by class or price: they all looked and cost almost the same.

Venetian masks can be divided into two main categories: classical and comedic. This natural division allows us to choose to decorate our home suitable models masks.

The most famous Venetian masks were the faces of the heroes of the street comedy Del Arte: Colombina, Harlequin, Pierrot. And the most recognizable is Zanni - a half mask, devoid of expensive jewelry with a long, downward curved nose, reminiscent of the beak of a strange bird.

Classic Venetian masks: Cat, Volto, Venetian lady. The most popular of them is Volto, which is also the most neutral, simply copying the basic features of a human face and remaining faceless at the same time.

The popularity of Venetian carnival decorations grew and they began to be used not only on carnival night, but also to decorate homes with them. So the masks “migrated” to the wall, and became widespread worldwide as an exquisite decorative element.

Venetian masks for the wall are currently made from various materials: metal, plastic, pressed cardboard, tin and lead alloys, bronze and even porcelain. The choice here depends, for the most part, on the financial capabilities of the buyer.

DIY Venetian masks

The most used as decoration various materials: silk, fur, veil, colored feathers, gems, pearls, glass, crystal and gold.

Depending on the popularity of the manufacturer, the materials used and decoration technologies, the prices for these products will also be different. But you can also make a mask by hand if you are confident that you can handle the job.

Venetian wall masks, handmade using papier-mâché technology, are considered popular. Perhaps each of us has encountered this technology of working with our hands more than once, starting almost from kindergarten.

The manufacturing principle is as follows: on the base of the future mask, soaked paper and a bandage soaked in glue are applied in layers. The base, in turn, we make, say, from clay for creativity, alabaster and similar sustainable materials.

Enough interesting crafts for home decoration you can get using this technique.

There can be several dozen layers, depending on the complexity of the configuration of the future product and the desired thickness. After the mask is formed, it is separated from the base and dries naturally.
It is necessary to give the mask enough time to dry, otherwise, as a result of further finishing, it may become deformed and lose its shape, and this is not very nice.
Then the resulting “semi-finished product” is coated with paints or enamel and decorated with improvised means. First, it is better to prime the mask with light paint. On a light base, further decorations are better visible, and the decor itself is not lost.

The final stage of finishing is coating the finished mask with varnish. You can use glitter to add brightness to the product. If this is your first time making a mask using papier-mâché technology, it is better to avoid using overly complex patterns for decoration.

The mask is ready. Price Supplies is small compared to a similar purchase, but its value is incomparably higher.

If you don’t want to make a Venetian mask with your own hands, you can purchase it in souvenir stores or specialized decor stores.

Based on materials from the site http://elite-bronze.ru

Masks hide the face and decorate the interior. Of those that decorate the interior, there are fashionable and unfashionable ones. In this article we will talk about fashionable ones. Don't take others. The exception is if they have sunk into your soul.

Europeans noticed them at the beginning of the 20th century. African masks have attracted attention with their mystical shapes, appearance and complex but beautiful patterns.

In Africa, they realized that they could make money from this addiction of Europeans, and launched the production of masks on an industrial scale.

However, as happens with many other things, masks have not lost popularity and are still used as souvenirs and home decorations. The reason is that modern pieces copy ancient ones, which were worn by shamans during rituals or which depicted gods and heroes.

Today, African masks come in two types:

those that are made in line production (price approximately 1,500 rubles);
those that are made by hand (their prices vary).

Venetian masks are divided into three types:

antiques;
modern;
souvenirs

They are made by hand (they are expensive, but very beautiful and excite the imagination) and in mass production (cheaper, but suitable for home decor). Beads, feathers, silk, brocade, bells, drawings from acrylic paints, gold or silver foil, enamel, etc. The latter is used to make the masks look like antique objects.

To decorate the interior, people buy masks made of porcelain, ceramics, leather and papier-mâché.

Don't be alarmed. And don’t think that you shouldn’t decorate your interior with them, because they’re scary. On the contrary, they will not only decorate the house, but also improve the environment. According to legend, frightening masks drove out evil spirits from the house, which brought troubles and troubles. In addition, in ancient times such masks were given to wish good luck, a rich harvest, health, good hunting and strong children.

If you hang masks haphazardly, then even the most beautiful specimens will look stupid and ruin the look. To prevent this from happening, hang masks on one wall, not on all of them.

The ideal place is the hallway and other places through which owners and guests often pass.

Bad places- sunny. When the sun shines on the masks, they lose their mystery and turn into ordinary objects.

If the mask is large, hang it midway between the floor and ceiling.

Conclusion

Our designers know how to decorate the interior not only with masks. If you don’t have time to think about decorating your home yourself, entrust the renovation to us. We will repair and decorate the house in at its best taking into account the wishes of the owners.

That's all. Stay with us.

The city of Venice is a wonderful place where all romantic couples can enjoy the surroundings.

Many people want to come to this city, but in order to feel the Venetian style, you can simply bring it into your home interior.

Characteristic features of the style

The most important and main feature of this style is sophistication. To understand it in detail, consider several characteristic features:

Versatility color range. She's filled different combinations. Popular tones in Venetian style design are purple, blue, and beige. These colors do not put pressure on the eyes and are very beautiful.

Items in shades of silver and gold. This feature will make your home more luxurious and rich.

The emphasis is on expensive things, especially luxurious furniture, which stands out from the entire interior of the room.

Marble floor. Instead of a simple floor one, you can use marble tiles, or, at your request, carry out high-quality marble sterilization.

Separate the walls Venetian plaster. Usually plaster is used to decorate walls in the Venetian style, but you can also glue unusual wallpaper, which have artistic painting.

The style is characterized by voluminous large surfaces. This will give the room the greatest look.

Venetian style in the interior should have many huge mirrors that have wooden frames.

Decorative elements used here include gold, large rich soft carpets, wood carvings and, of course, masks for the Venetian carnivals.

Venetian style in the living room

An important room in any house or apartment is the living room. This is where we spend time with friends, guests, or spend family evenings in a stake of people close and dear to us. This room is decorated luxuriously and richly.

It will be possible to make high-quality interior decoration in the Venetian style only if it is not small, but rather wide and spacious in size.

The colors in a Venetian-style room should be gentle, not harsh or bright. You can separate the walls with wallpaper screen printing, and cover one of the walls with photo wallpaper with a landscape of Italy.

If you make all the walls the same tone, then you can attach different paintings to them famous artists throughout Italy. It could be either Michelangelo or Leonardo before Vinci.

As decoration you can choose large vases with a beautiful artistic painting on the floor, a huge clock on one of the walls or various Venetian-style figurines that can be placed on shelves attached to the wall.

It is better to decorate windows with expensive and heavy floor-length curtains. Draping many layers will help to decorate them.

Venetian style furniture attracts a lot of attention. You should choose from natural wood, which will emphasize the entire style. The room is also decorated with furniture decorated with carvings and velvet upholstery.

Bedroom style

A Venetian-style bedroom should reflect all its romance. You should make it comfortable and cozy so that you feel good about being in it.

The bed should be spacious and wooden, decorated with carvings.
Glass accessories - candlesticks or figurines.
A large number of decorative soft pillows located on several bedspreads.
Heavy curtains that reach the floor. They shouldn't miss daylight, for your relaxing holiday, but at the same time serve as decoration for the window.
A gilded chandelier on the ceiling will go perfectly with small spotlights.