10.07.2009

corner view / italy

corner view:  typical souvenir of your city

I live in Lumignano, a quaint village in the Veneto.  We don't have souvenirs.  Venice, one of the world's most famous tourist destinations, is near us, and it is full of disgusting delightful souvenirs.

These masks are just one example --



But wait, I must confess . . . this photo was taken in New Orleans this summer and not in nearby Venice.  Both cities, with rich Carnival traditions,  purchase these mass-produced masks by way of China, I'm certain.

Locally-created artisan masks are available in Venice, but they aren't nearly as popular with the average tourist.  I've got my eye on one shop by way of a tip from my friend Wendy;  I'll let you know when I take the plunge and make the big purchase.



For more corner views across the globe:

13 comments:

Francesca said...

When we were in Venice last, we weren't able to find the locally-created artisan masks, and we ended up buying in Burano plain white masks which we then locally decorated ourselves!

Anonymous said...

I know what you mean by disgusting... !!! ; ) Have a great day !

Unknown said...

It's so true though about souvenirs ..... the ones you HAVE to have are not the ones from home :)

Ian said...

If truth be told, 90% of the world's souvenirs are probably made in China.

likeschocolate said...

Yes, the mask are now produced in china, but I think some parts of it are made in Italy. I think it is some Italien law or something. My boys never picked up the southern accent and do not speak German with a southern accent so all or worries were for nothing. Nothing against southern accents, but I have heard Texans speak German and it hurts ones ears.

Cate said...

yes, i hear you. i hate the average souvenir as well. aren't they ALL made in china? sigh.

Di said...

Isn't it funny how souvenirs are also travelling the world these days! Thank you for sharing! And I agree, an artisan made one has to be so much better than one mass produced in China!

Janis said...

ha! I love how you crossed out the word "disgusting" ! That's the problem with tourism and mass produced souvenirs, and I completely understand :)

Jodi said...

no matter! i love the pic anyway. thanks for posting!

la ninja said...

totally with you there... look those pretty masks up, though, and show them to us, will ya? ;)

Kari said...

great masks - even if they are from New Orleans!

Jeannette said...

That´s why I like vintage souvenirs or food as something to take home. I´ve never been to Venice but I would love to.

jane said...

i remember seeing the masks all over venice... i wasn´t tempted to buy one either... besos!