Sentence:  An actor on the Italian stage permitted at the Foire du St. Germain, in Paris, was renowned for the wild, venturous, and extravagant wit, the brilliant sallies and fortunate repartees, with which he prodigally seasoned the character of the party-coloured jester. Some critics, whose good-will towards a favourite performer was stronger than their judgment, took occasion to remonstrate with the successful actor on the subject of the grotesque <WSD>vizard</WSD>. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  A mask (cover for the face, used for disguise, protection, etc.)