AN AUTHENTIC MASTERPIECE OF VENETIAN MAJESTY — DIRECT SINGLE-OWNER PROVENANCE

Step back into the romantic, mist-veiled canals of 1994 Venice with this exquisite, museum-worthy Venetian Carnival masterpiece. Personally acquired directly from the historic, world-renowned Charta Gallery atelier in Venice, Italy, in 1994, this spectacular piece has been meticulously preserved within my private collection for over three decades. It is now ready to grace a new home of distinction.

THE ARTISAN & POETRY OF CRAFT
This mask is an original creation by the legendary Venetian maestro Dario Ustino, a master artisan globally celebrated for resurrecting ancient, gilded Renaissance bookbinding and structural arts since 1975.

Known for his uncompromising devotion to gold-leaf gilding and historic textures, Maestro Ustino’s signature studio label remains flawlessly intact on the mask's velvet-dark reverse side, dated 1994 in vintage script.

AESTHETIC SPLENDOR & DESIGN
Measuring a commanding 11 inches, the mask embodies the dramatic, theatrical spirit of the Commedia dell'Arte.

The Countenance: The face is structured from traditional Venetian papier-mâché, finished in a stunning cracked-alabaster texture that evokes centuries of European history.
The Gilding: Ornate, heavy Baroque scrollwork in rich, lustrous gold leaf arches elegantly over the eyes and bathes the lips in a metallic, royal brilliance.
The Regalia: Framing the face is an imposing, architectural jester collar and crown loops. It features an intricate, repeating damask motif of regal black and gold filigree, seamlessly bordered by a glittering, looped bullion trim.

PROVENANCE & CONDITION REPORT This is a rare, true single-owner treasure, cherished deeply and kept in a smoke-free, climate-controlled environment since its journey from Italy 32 years ago. Reflecting its genuine vintage lineage, there is a minor separation/tear (1/2”) in the fabric collar where it meets the gold trim at the very top header loop. Rather than detaching from its beauty, this subtle imperfection serves as a poetic testament to its age and authentic handmade construction. It remains nearly hidden from view when proudly displayed on a wall. Complete with its original brilliant gold satin ribbon tied on the reverse, this mask stands ready to serve as a breathtaking visual anchor for a luxury home gallery, an elite theater collection, or a sophisticated tribute to Italian heritage.
Maestro: Dario Ustino (Charta Atelier, Venice)
Date of Creation: 1994
Dimensions: Approx. 11" H x 9" W
Materials: Authentic Venetian Papier-Mâché.