Pulcinella

Traditional Pulcinella historic mask.

Pulcinella was a character from the Commedia dell'arte theatre, which was very popular from 16th to the 18 centuries in Venice and elsewhere in Europe.

This character started out as an idiot simpleton servant, like Arlecchino, but developed into a very complex figure.  He is resigned to his destiny as a poor and ugly hunchback, but is also a romantic, love-struck and often witty character, full of common sense.  He became a feature of theatrical performances only in the south of Italy, but remained a very important figure in the Venice Carnival (Carnevale).  The name probably derives from "pulcino" ("chick") and he did in fact, speak with a sort of a "cheeping" voice.

Bring some of the charm and character of this ancient character to either the masquerade ball or masked event or simply as a wonderful decoration for your home (or both), linking back to this ancient character.