Not all the Commedia Dell'Arte masks have symbols of shape, colour, and/or facial expression, but here are those that do:
The facial expression of Il Pantalone (the King) shows how all his money and wealth did not stop him from being the miserly man that he is.
The wrinkles and white hair emphasize his old age
The wrinkles and white hair emphasize his old age
Capitano (the hero) wears a facial expression of a determined man, looking very macho.
His wide eyes, however, reveal that he is lying or exaggerating his heroic tales.
The large mustache is symbol of strength, as though he needs to prove that he has it because he does not.
His wide eyes, however, reveal that he is lying or exaggerating his heroic tales.
The large mustache is symbol of strength, as though he needs to prove that he has it because he does not.
Arlecchino's amused, childlike expression show that he is the trickster, amused by what he is planning to do next, or enjoying as he watched someone fall into his trap.
The round face and chubby cheeks resemble those of a smiling child, who is planning on tricking someone.
The round face and chubby cheeks resemble those of a smiling child, who is planning on tricking someone.
Brighella (often the villain) has a stern and mocking expression, which symbolizes anger and greed.
The usually green colour of his mask also symbolizes, not only greed, but also envy.