It’s sadly known in Venice during the plague epidemic that killed thousands of people. It was the only person who could get in touch with the plague victims who had to stay in quarantine at the Island of Lazareto. He used to put spices inside his long nose , that purified the air and the lenght of his nose served to keep a safe distance from the patient . He was completely wrapped by a black cloat and he wore a black round hat. He had a wooden stick that allowed him to touch the patients. At the biginning of the 18th century the plague was finally eradicated. After that period people continued to use this mask during the Carnival in a supertitious gesture .