Wear The Power

How you can tell if your personal venetian mask is authentic

In Italy, the venetian mask is actually a recognised icon of the countries artistic flair and class equality. They were first designed in the 1700’s and were utilised a social events where men and women would wear the masks to cover their identities. It didn’t matter if you were rich or poor, those participating had the opportunity to mingle with the ones from another stature. It was an inviting opportunity for the women to meet up with men who usually, they’d never get a chance to come across.
The majority of the masks were created by the person or by community artists who had a talent for things like this. When you check out the Marde Gra, you’ll see exactly what I mean. Every mask is different in features and decorated with an selection of paint, gems and feathers. One can choose from a variety of different shapes and moods which mirror the individual underneath.

On the market today, there’s lots of inferior quality copies of this once wonderful art. Lots are produced in China, and simply don’t have the brilliant quality you’d find inside an authentic collection. There are several ways to tell them apart, some obvious, and some after some little more detective work.

With sites like eBay, it’s not unusual for the market place to get inundated by cheap replicas and usually, some people are not aware what to look for and therefore are astonished each time a broken or damaged mask appears at their home.

The first step is usually to check for any trademark or markings. Traditional venetian masks are signed by the regional artists who make them. The signature is usually added in porcelain paint to the edge or interior of the mask. Should you spot a “made in china”, then you already know your item will not be genuine.

Next, examine the material actually used to create the mask. Venetian Masks are made from a thick ceramic or solid papier mache. The result is light in weight to be worn on the face, but strong in order that it isn’t going to break if bent or dropped a little. Look into the thickness in the mask, if it’s really thin, it is a higher possibility it’s fake.

The other thing that is unique is the craft on its own. Don’t forget venetian masks are hand-made, so every single one is unique. If you happen to own one which seems to be precisely the same, then its likely been produced via a manufacturing procedure and is not genuine. As they’re created with ceramic paint, jewels and feathers, you’d notice that all these things have been added by hand. It’s the slight imperfections that provides it the unique look which was given by the masks artist.

Recal not all venetian masks are created to put on either. Some are created for ornamental reasons and hang on living room or bedroom walls. They’re hobbyists items, lots of people might enjoy buying them throughout the years and keep them boxed or perhaps an area focused upon Italian art and collectors’ items.

There are numerous available choices on the internet, just be sure the merchandise are authentic items. Ask the shop if it doesn’t show.

About the Author

Ellen Parry is an expert in everything Italian. For more information and advice on venetian masks or capodimonte ornaments visit her website.

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