Handmade Gilded Venetian-Style Papier-Mache Celestial Masks, Representing the Sun (Sole) and the Moon (Luna)

Details

Description

Post-1950 Handmade matching pair of Venetian-style celestial masks, representing the Sun (Sole) and the Moon (Luna). Heavily inspired by classic … Read more Post-1950 Handmade matching pair of Venetian-style celestial masks, representing the Sun (Sole) and the Moon (Luna). Heavily inspired by classic Italian commedia dell'arte imagery and traditional masquerade craft. While both incorporate classic European theatrical design elements, its execution showcases distinct folk art qualities. Finding them together confirms they were made as a thematic decorative set.

The moon represents mystery, femininity, and the night cycle, serving as the direct artistic opposite to the powerful sun mask.
The upper half features a prominent crescent moon shape. This is a classic Venetian theatrical design choice that turns the celestial body into a wearable headpiece.
They are sculpted with identical facial expressions but inverted color profiles, creating a perfect aesthetic harmony when hung together.

Dimensions:
Sun: Width 20 in x Height 15 in x Depth 4 in
Moon: height 11 1/2 in x width 10 1/2in x depth 5 1/2 in
In good condition, with light texture wear.
The back of the masks are relined green velvet. See less