Arlecchino (Harlequin) is perhaps the most recognizable Zanni character. This acrobatic servant character represents the clever underclass.

Pantalone represents the wealthy but miserly Venetian merchant. His character, with his hunched posture and distinctive beard, embodies the economic power of Renaissance Venice.

Flavio: A young and handsome lover who is typically paired with Isabella.

Isabella: A beautiful and intelligent lover who is often pursued by other characters.

The Zanni at first wore a full faced carnival mask, but then the bottom of the mask was hinged and eventually cut away altogether. It was believed that the longer the nose of the Zanni, the stupider he is said to be.

The Renaissance's rediscovery of ancient Greek and Roman culture included an interest in classical theatre. Commedia dell'arte, a form of Italian comedy, was influenced by the structure and themes of ancient Roman comedies. It borrowed elements such as stock characters and simple plot structures.

The nose for Capitan Spaventa's mask is fairly large. Originally, the color of the mask was probably flesh tone, now it can be many vibrant colors like bright pink, yellow, and light blue. The mask often has a strong mustache and brow lines that can be in various colors.