Roman comic mask
Item
Title
Roman comic mask
Rights
Image Copyright: University of Canterbury
Type
comic masks (theatrical masks, masks (costume), ... Furnishings and Equipment (hierarchy name))
Date
1st-2nd century CE
Description
This is a Roman theatre mask made from terracotta, depicting a male character. It is a beige, almost pink, colour and the terracotta is embedded with various stones, pebbles and other debris. The mask features two uniform eye holes and a hole for the mouth, as well as a small suspension hole just above the character’s forehead.
The mask was probably mould-made, which is suggested by the face being so smooth and uniform. The reverse surface is uneven from when the clay was pressed in to the mould, and there are fingerprints on the left reverse as well, suggesting the mask was made by hand. The reverse is very organic and bumpy.
The mask appears to represent a male character with long braided hair, visible eye sockets and a nose that seems very flat and worn. The character also has a natural shaped, wide-open mouth.
The mask was probably mould-made, which is suggested by the face being so smooth and uniform. The reverse surface is uneven from when the clay was pressed in to the mould, and there are fingerprints on the left reverse as well, suggesting the mask was made by hand. The reverse is very organic and bumpy.
The mask appears to represent a male character with long braided hair, visible eye sockets and a nose that seems very flat and worn. The character also has a natural shaped, wide-open mouth.
Format
Ceramic: Terracotta
Extent
152 x 145 x 45mm
0.38kg
0.38kg
Rights Holder
University of Canterbury
Owner
University of Canterbury
Collection
James Logie Memorial Collection
