Catkin Venetian Carnival

Catkin Venetian Carnival

The first Venetian Carnival dates back to 1296 but it's origins are far older.There are records showing some sort of celebration was happening in 1094. It would have been a spectacular time as these celebrations went on for many weeks of festivities and fun. 

The wearing of masks made it even more fun as it hid  the "class" factor making it possible for any to ridicule the aristocracy. It was during this time that the writer Casanova spent his life between his well known love affairs and wild parties. 

At the end of the century the wearing of masks became forbidden and though the carnival survived it wasn't until 1979 that the tradition of masks was reintroduced in the way seen today.

Catkin Venetian Carnival
This charming couple are shown descending a flight of steps having just crossed over a narrow bridge with the well known closely built tall buildings in the background. He, still wearing his mask and the lady's, held down by her side.  Stitched in Black Grey Green and Gold filament.