Theatre Mask
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
Object number92.0033
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.
