I'm reading an account of life at the court of James I, and it mentions the frequent court "masques" that were popular, along with elaborate costumes &c for the events. And I know that the mask-makers of Venice were incorporated as early as the 13th Century... but I don't think I've ever seen images of people wearing costumes or masks from the period. I have seen pictures of women with scarf-like face coverings, but they appear to be more protective (for warmth or "bad air") than decorative.
Does anyone have links to contemporary images of people in costume for festivals and the like?
Gramercy!!
Here are some drawings of masque costumes from 16th/17th century from Drea Leed's website. Pretty fun stuff!
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/masque/index.html
She also has an article about how she made one on the site as well.
If you want to see some masks that are period google Commedia dell'arte. You'll find plenty.