Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami

Theatre Mask

Artist/Maker Artist Unknown (Artist Unknown)

Date3rd to 2nd century BCE

Mediumbronze

DimensionsOverall: 7 x 6 1/2 x 2 1/4 in. (17.8 x 16.5 x 5.7 cm)

ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories

Credit LineMuseum purchase through funds from Colonel C. Michael Paul

Terms

Object number92.0033

On View

On view

Collections

Art of the Ancient Mediterranean

DescriptionMolded masks of linen stiffened with paste were worn by actors during open-air theatrical performances, which were very popular among the Greeks. The mask, with its exaggerated expression, conveyed eloquent emotion to the audience, even to those who sat considerable distances away from the stage of a great amphitheater. Theatrical masks were often copied in harder materials such as bronze and in smaller sizes to serve as votive offerings- some from actors- to the god Dionysos, who provided much of the early subject matter from Greek tragedy. This example features a gaping mouth that identifies it as a mask of tragedy.