This mask belongs to our collection of historical masks: traditionally they were used in the past centuries in Venice. The name of this mask is Plague's Doctor and it was traditionally used by doctors to treat the plague disease.
HISTORY OF THE PLAGUE DOCTOR MASK:
"The plague doctor's costume was the clothing worn by a plague doctor to protect him from airborne diseases. The costume, originating in the 17th century in Venice, consisted of an ankle length overcoat and a bird-like beak mask often filled with sweet or strong smelling substances (commonly lavender), along with gloves, boots, a brim hat, and an outer over-clothing garment.
The mask had glass openings for the eyes and a curved beak shaped like that of a bird. Straps held the beak in front of the doctor's nose. The mask had two small nose holes and was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items. The beak could hold dried flowers (including roses and carnations), herbs (including mint), spices, camphor, or a vinegar sponge. The purpose of the mask was to keep away bad smells, which were thought to be the principal cause of the disease in the miasma theory of infection, before it was disproved by germ theory. Doctors believed the herbs would counter the "evil" smells of the plague and prevent them from becoming infected."
Today, it is perfect for any masquerade party, Halloween costume, pro or event in Venice or elsewhere during Carnival. This mask can be gently bent to form to your face and ties in the back with two soft matching ribbons. Since the mask is handmade, your mask could be lightly different from the one in the picture.
Size: order one-size
Each mask is an original design and is decorated by hand in Venice.
Our decorators use techniques typical of the Venetian tradition such as stucco, acrylics, gold and silver-leaf, macramè, passementerie, glitters and crequelè to offer you a wide range of original handmade masks and decorations.
This shape is also available in different colors and could be created according to your desire, using many different designs and techniques.
We ship worldwide with GLS, DHL, FedEx. Very accurate packaging. Only door-to-door shipment (No PO.Box).
+++ Very Important +++
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If we are not able to ship your order on time because we do not have a telephone number for the shipping company and you want to be refund after that date, we are sorry but we will not be able to refund the total amount: we will deduct Etsy percentage and PayPal costs.
Product code: Plague Doctor order Mask, Plague Mask, Plague Doctor Costume, Masquerade Mask - M32