Costumes, and especially masks, made it possible to indulge in the festivities in anonymity and the rigid class structure of the Venetian Republic could temporarily be eschewed. During the rest of the year, Venetians adhered to a caste system so oppressive that even their clothes were organized according to their professions. The opportunity to live and celebrate as equals once a year served as a release that helped to maintain the order necessary to operate a republic at a time when civilian rule was fragile and rare.
Craft paints & glitter used to decorate blank masks
Creativity
79
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting