#34: The Moretta Mask, Mid 1760s

The idea of what is considered beautiful changes all the time. Even though it might not make much sense today, people used to understand the idea of beauty differently back in the day. The ideals we know and practice today are a product of modern society and modern marketing techniques.

It is safe to say that the Moretta mask wouldn’t be seen as such an appealing standard for beauty today. The Moretta mask experienced extreme popularity until it almost completely disappeared in 1760. The mask had no straps to secure it, as it would secure itself to one’s face. It would be kept in place by a button sewn into the mask that would most commonly be clamped between teeth. Ultimately rendering the ladies unable to speak…