The character, Pantalone

The "particular" maskings of the Venetians we thought it appropriate to flank some traditional masks, linked more to the theatrical environment.

We clearly want to focus only on analyzing those that are best known in the Veneto-Lombardy area, or in any case abundantly hosted by the Venetian carnival. The Pantalone is the most famous Venetian mask. There is no doubt about his origin, since, from his first appearance in the Commedia dell'Arte companies, the "first old man", called the "Magnificent", expressed himself in the frank and musical Venetian accent.

That nickname soon gives way to the immortal Pantalone. Theories about the origin of the name are always multiple

From what we know that the name derives from S. Pantaleone, one of the saints venerated in the city, to whom a church is also dedicated. Another possible derivation from "piantaleoni", a name used to designate the people who opened their banks in the conquered lands and symbolically "planted" the Lion of San Marco, expanding the power of the city with trade.

The profession of trader is closely linked to the individual.

Grevembroch ensures that the term is even older and must be sought in a significant Greek expression: "powerful in all things". A derivation that precedes the appearance of the theatrical mask seems to be confirmed in a certain way.