Recently I wrote something about Venetian Carnival Masks. I found some more pictures in the archive and I think this one is well suited to the challenge. I found one interesting thing about masks.
The oldest surviving document that talks about Venetian masks date back to 1268. New laws came into force from the fourteenth century onwards. Strict legislation began in 1339 when people were barred from walking around the city at night with masks. Wearing masks was not a reserved habit just for Carnival Tuesday; people often hid their identities with them, and under the guise of doing all kinds of inconveniences.
The penalties for violating this law were drastic. The men were punished by two years ‘imprisonment, 18 months’ rowing on Venetian galleys and a further £ 500 fine. The women were beaten on the way from Rialto Bridge to St. Mark’s Square, where they were placed among the pillars and exposed to public ridicule. On top of that, they were barred from entering the territory of the Venetian Republic for a full four years and added payment of 500 lire.
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Do you find the penalties too severe?
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1.Yes
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2.No
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It looks like an Illuminati Convention. What is this carnival for? A particular holiday?
This is a very famous (especially in Europe) Carnival.
I saw what you said about people not commenting and returning views. You are very successful. Most of my posts have one comment, maybe two.
First of all, thank you very much for your views and comments. I agree, I have quite a few comments. I am trying to work normal despite all the “problems”. I try very hard but many members ignore me.
those penalties are way too much. I understand the need to get people to not wear their masks all the time but, that is just severe.
The penalties were really high and severe. But there were different times.
they were different times. Plus it was possible I am sure to easily avoid the authorities back then all things considered.
An interesting choice of umbrella color. The measures were extremely stringent.
You are right. The penalties were really high and severe. But these were different times.
The penalties were not severe because they did not want people in masks to disguise themselves when they were committing crimes. Now, they can wear masks.
You are right. This is also one of the reasons for the high penalties.
That purple umbrella truly stands out.
I agree. It really is in a slightly different purple color.
Love this photograph, and what a beautiful shade of purple. The history is fascinating, and yes I do think the punishment too extreme. The woman sure had it tough for violating.
Thank you, Kim. I love history. I have a little more time now and I started exploring. I can say that this is an interesting job 😊
I love it as well, but hated it in school. I didn’t learn much, so since I have been an adult I really get into it.
Such beautiful costumes! I didn’t know much about the history of Venetian masks, thank you for this information!
Thank you very much. I have a little more time now and I started exploring 😊
Love those purple masks. And yes those penalties back in the 1300’s were pretty severe.
Thank you very much. The masks are really gorgeous in all colors.