Mardi Gras Masks: History & Scandal

Many words come to mind when one sees a Mardi Gras mask: carnival, parade, celebration, beads, dancing, drinking, party. The word "history" is not usually associated with an item that brings such a fun and colorful vibe. But the History of the Mardi Gras Mask is actually a fascinating look into one of the great states of our country, Louisiana and its most famous city, New Orleans. Your first history lesson - locals pronounce it N'Awlins with their smooth Southern twang.

As with Mardi Gras, the history behind Mardi Gras masks is rich with culture and even a bit of scandal. You've most likely seen the masks sported on Bourbon Street, on Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent commences. People today wear the masks to follow a long-held and highly respected tradition (and maybe to hide their faces should any Mardi Gras discretions take place). How did Mardi Gras masks get started? Read (and party) on!

The History of Mardi Gras Masks goes back to the 1800s when elitist society in New Orleans participated in Mardi Gras events. These extremely rich and often times corrupt members of the coummunity, would not unmask themselves in order to remain anonymous (and powerful).

It is well documented that the first actual Mardi Gras celebration dates all the way back to 1699, when French settlers celebrated as a testament to the Catholic religion. Eventually, the festive mood began to spread and each year, during the week leading up to Lent (a sacrificial and sober Catholic tradition that still exists today) the people of New Orleans got together, donned their fanciest and most ornate ball gowns and garb and danced until sunrise at huge events known as Carnival balls.

The masks worn during Carnival, while dramatically different and unique, all shared similar characteristics. Each mask covered the top half of the face with only eye holes cut out. The mouth was also visible, providing a seductive, mysterious look. Hours upon hours were spent on decorating the masks with the finest materials - rare feathers, jewels and silk. All masks were hand-held with a long stick on the side.

Eventually, Carnival balls were sometimes set as a game among the guests. The masked guests were supposedly dressed so as to be unidentifiable. This would create a type of game to see if a guest could determine each others' identities. This added a humorous effect to many masks and enabled a more enjoyable version of typical balls. It also enabled the echelon upper-class to rub elbows with the lowly peasants and find out what was really being said behind their backs!