Tragic mask
Item
Title
Tragic mask
Rights
Image Copyright: University of Canterbury
Type
tragic masks (theatrical masks, masks (costume), ... Furnishings and Equipment (hierarchy name))
Creator
Ministry of Culture Archaeological Receipts Fund - Casting and Copying Workshop
Date
1988-1989, replica of original from 4th century BCE
Description
This is a cast replica of an original ancient bronze sculpture in the form of a Greek theatre mask. The replica has been made with plaster, and painted green and orange to give the illusion of corroded bronze material.
The character is male and is depicted with a wide-mouthed tragic expression, a large triangular nose, large eyeholes with eyelids and exaggerated bags under the eyes, dramatic raised eyebrows and a large, highly detailed curly beard. The face also has high prominent cheekbones. The artefact is helmet-shaped, with a full detail of curly long hair at the back, and it is completely smooth and hollow inside. It is curious that the original sculpture is made of bronze and was formed as a helmet. This is an uncommon shape and medium for sculptures of theatre masks.
The original of this mask was found in the ancient agora of Athens. An agora is a central community space that accommodated businesses, the arts, sports, religious and spiritual gatherings, and political life in the city. The Athenian agora did not have an amphitheater, so theatre performances in the space would have taken place out in the open. The original sculpture may have been a piece of decoration to commemorate the performances that took place there or perhaps was a votive offering.
The character is male and is depicted with a wide-mouthed tragic expression, a large triangular nose, large eyeholes with eyelids and exaggerated bags under the eyes, dramatic raised eyebrows and a large, highly detailed curly beard. The face also has high prominent cheekbones. The artefact is helmet-shaped, with a full detail of curly long hair at the back, and it is completely smooth and hollow inside. It is curious that the original sculpture is made of bronze and was formed as a helmet. This is an uncommon shape and medium for sculptures of theatre masks.
The original of this mask was found in the ancient agora of Athens. An agora is a central community space that accommodated businesses, the arts, sports, religious and spiritual gatherings, and political life in the city. The Athenian agora did not have an amphitheater, so theatre performances in the space would have taken place out in the open. The original sculpture may have been a piece of decoration to commemorate the performances that took place there or perhaps was a votive offering.
Format
Plaster
Extent
308 x 380 x 340 mm
Chin to head = 395 mm
Chin to head = 395 mm
Rights Holder
University of Canterbury
Owner
University of Canterbury
Collection
James Logie Memorial Collection - Cast Collection
