Larva or volto

Mainly white, typically Venetian, this was worn with a tricorn and cloak to make up the Bauta.

It is thought the word larva comes from the Latin meaning mask or ghost. It is easy to imagine the effect of a Venetian all dressed in black with a white mask and a black tricorn, going past in the moonlight.

The shape of the mask allowed the bearer to breathe and drink easily, and so there was no need to take it off, thus preserving anonymity.

These masks were made of fine wax cloth and so were much lighter and were not irritating to wear making them ideal for eating, dancing and flirting.