Venetian masks in the interior of the apartment. Venetian masks on the wall. The meaning of masks in the culture of different nations

The Venice Carnival of Masks is the most famous and oldest, the most original and unexpected: here the kingdom of masks and life itself resembles a theatrical stage among the canals. Dancing in the squares, luxurious carnival costumes embroidered with gold and decorated with precious stones.



If you have been invited to an event in the Venetian style, but you have not yet chosen a specific image, turn to one of the images, each of which has a certain character, style of behavior and manner of dressing!



Many carnival masks are variants of the Italian commedia dell'arte masks, special type street theater performance. These include Harlequin, Columbine, Pedrolino, Pulcinella and other characters, each of whom was distinguished by a certain character, style of behavior and manner of dressing.



In the past, Venetians wore masks not only during carnival, but also on weekdays. Venice was and remains a small city and partially isolated from the mainland, so the local residents knew each other well by sight. The possibility of meeting an acquaintance on the street at the most inopportune moment probably greatly hindered the Venetians in their personal and public life. Therefore, they came up with the custom of wearing masks, thanks to which it was possible to hide not only the identity and social status, but even the floor. Masks were especially useful for lovers, who in this situation found it much easier to hide their adventures from their legal spouses.
Every year, on the eve of spring, a noisy, heady wave of carnivals sweeps across the world. Almost on the same days on the eve of Lent, carnivals take place in France and Switzerland, in Austria and Germany, in the Canary Islands and Italy. Everywhere they have their own unique appearance and color.


IN modern Italy The carnival is celebrated for two weeks. A few days before the official opening of the carnival, romantics from all over Europe come to the city, and crowded processions from orchestras and street theaters begin to walk through the streets: the marchers are fooling around, blowing trumpets and beating drums, shouting songs, setting off firecrackers - in a word, they depict this in every possible way. the very carnival.



In the 18th century the main actors The Venetian carnival becomes the heroes of the Italian commedia dell'arte: hundreds and thousands of Harlequins, Pierrots, Pantalones appear on the streets, and the lovely Columbina becomes the emblem of the carnival. At the same time, a tradition that has survived to this day arose to open the carnival by launching from the bell tower of San Marco a paper dove tied to a thin thread - Columbina, which explodes in flight, showering everyone gathered in the square with a rain of confetti.

Anyone who has ever been to Venice is familiar with the era of the luxurious Renaissance. The spirit of Italian aristocrats can be created in your home.

The Venetian style in the interior appeared in the 14th century. with the advent of the heyday of culture and painting. During this time, famous artists experimented with different colors, new lines and shapes.

Created Hi-tech, which were immediately implemented into house designs.

The special grace and uniqueness of the era quickly acquired certain features that distinguish the Venetian style, making it recognizable:

• The main thing is the color of each interior, a complex combination of shades and lighting effects. Colors occupy a special place: rich purple, bright blue, emerald and beige.
• There is an abundance of elements with gilding and silver, which emphasizes the splendor and presentability of the decoration.
• All the details are extravagantly luxurious.
• The floor is decorated with marble or ceramic tiles.
• Large mirrors in gilded frames made of expensive wood.

Silk-screened wallpaper was used for wall decoration, Venetian plaster and beautiful paintings in the style of Baroque palaces.

Unique decor made of gold leaf, unusually shaped twisted columns to support vaults, headboards of large beds with openwork carvings. The floor was decorated with huge carpets by Italian masters.

Furnishings

When choosing furniture in the Venetian style, bulky wooden items, but elegantly decorated with luxurious upholstery in velvet, silk or tapestry.

Murano glass and stained glass are a must for style.

Cabinets large sizes for storing books and manuscripts, where valuable collections of rarities are collected.

Venice – old City trade, where sailors and numerous tourists came, so placing maps and a globe is more appropriate in the library.

You need beautiful massive lamps, rare figurines, masks for carnivals, which were very popular in Venice. It is better to place them on a marble tabletop in a Venetian-style room.

All furniture takes up a large volume and is massive, so to create an exquisite corner of sunny Italy you need large space and considerable funds.

Creating Venice in the bedroom

To create a bedroom Venetian style you need to follow some rules:

• huge bed made of natural wood;
• curtains with heavy drapes;
• forged interior parts (candelabra, figurines) or glass;
• central large chandelier with gilded details;
• a bed with several pillows of different sizes.

Venetian kitchen and bathroom

To give the rooms a Venetian style design, there must be columns and arches. Elegant vintage decorative items decorate niches in the shape of a semicircle.

Decorate the walls in pastel colors. A mirror is one of the attributes of style, a lot of light. Venice loves holidays, so the design should have the feeling of a bright, cheerful celebration.

Venetian living room

The relaxation room and reception of guests involves large area. Venetian style interior decoration allows for a wide range of rich colors for a luxurious appearance.

One wall can be covered with photo wallpaper with beautiful landscapes of Italy, panoramic views bridges and cities.

On others hang reproductions of great painters: Michelangelo, Botticelli, da Vinci and Titian, they reflected this era in their work.

Long, thick, heavy floor-length curtains made of expensive fabric will complement the overall look.

Custom-made wooden furniture with carved legs, beautifully decorated backs, sofas and armchairs upholstered in velvet are irreplaceable. Such exclusive items give the interior a unique personality.

Serve as decor floor vases with paintings, watches, bronze figurines, crystal trinkets.

Venice was called the “Pearl of Europe”, and the Venetian style was called the “pearl of interior design”. This is a combination of several European styles with the wonderful Italian taste of sophistication and romantic nobility.

Having seen Venice, everyone will want to decorate a house (apartment) in the Venetian style, where eternal joy and sunshine reign in the luxury of the interior.

Photo of Venetian style in the interior

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 at random, 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.

Ideal place- hallway and other places through which owners and guests often pass.

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

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.

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 an outlandish 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 wall masks 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 with 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.

You can get some pretty interesting ones 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

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, delicate lace from Burano, antique stationery and, of course, masks - the 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 festival of fertility - 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 suits, but just having 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 life of the Venetians around late XVIII centuries, when, having experienced a rapid flourishing, 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 short excursion I'll still allow myself. 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, the 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 follows the shape of a 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 of the Venetian Doge and became a local celebrity. True, then the cat returned to his homeland anyway - as the greatest value, they paid for expensive Chinese silks. I don’t know what about the Chinese cat specifically, 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, contemporary artists (cannot be called otherwise), while maintaining ancient traditions in technology, keep up with the times in topics. These days you can find masks in the form of aliens, goblins, elves, sea monsters and modern movie heroes! 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 products 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 a carnival, or as a souvenir reminiscent of the beautiful city, but also “make it work” to decorate your home. 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 small plastic that matches the style. 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 bright accent living room, dining room and even kitchen. What do you think of these options?

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 a 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